url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/in-december-podcast-king-talks-climate-change-with-us-sens-romney-coons-and-college-of-the-atlantic-president-darron-collins,"In December Podcast, King Talks Climate Change with U.S. Sens. Romney, Coons, and College of the Atlantic President Darron Collins",2019-12-29,2019,2019-12,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON,
D.C.  Today, the Office of U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) released the
December edition of Senator King's monthly Inside Maine podcast. This
month's show highlights the impact of climate change on Maine, as well as
emerging bipartisan solutions to address this existential crisis. In the first
segment, Senator King is joined by Senators Mitt Romney (R-Utah), and Chris
Coons (D-Del.), to discuss bipartisan steps Congress can take to mitigate and
adapt to the effects of climate change. Each of the
Senators is a member of the bipartisan
Climate Solutions Caucus. In the second
segment, Darron Collins, President of the College of the Atlantic (COA),
joins Senator King to share his thoughts on the specific challenges facing
Maine and the work COA is pursuing to reduce their impact on our planet.   Climate change
is the most serious global crisis in my lifetime, and it's crucial that we act
quickly to mitigate the toll that it's already taking on our environment; I
want my grandchildren to know that I took the necessary action for them and
their future families, said Senator King. The facts are clear, and
paint a grave picture for future generations, with the Gulf of Maine warming
99% faster than the world's oceans. With bipartisan
initiatives put forth by myself and my colleagues in the Senate  and the
expertise of institutions like the College of the Atlantic in Bar Harbor  we
can and should take steps towards lasting change.  A forceful
advocate for clean energy solutions wherever they can be found, Senator King is
the lead sponsor on a range of bills that encourage energy efficiency and
research on clean energy technologies, such as the Joint
Long-Term Storage Act, which seeks to speed up deployment of
long-duration energy storage technologies through strategic collaboration
between federal agencies. He is a cosponsor of the Renewable Electricity Standard Act of 2019
which would put the U.S. on a trajectory to decarbonize the power sector by
2050. In July, Senator King took to the Senate floor to urge bold and meaningful action to mitigate the threat of
climate change. He also
continues to
speak out to encourage the administration to rejoin the Paris Climate Accord
and reaffirm U.S. leadership in the fight against global climate change.   The Inside
Maine Podcast with Senator Angus King is a 30-minute program that aims to help
keep Maine people informed about issues of the day, how they affect life in the
state, and how they factor into Senator King's work as one of two independents
in the U.S. Senate. Senator King's podcast builds on his existing radio show
that airs on Newsradio WGAN in Portland, Maine between 10 and 11 a.m. on almost
every last Saturday of the month. The link to the December podcast can be
foundHERE.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-colleagues-stress-urgency-of-arctic-policy-through-new-legislation,"King, Colleagues Stress Urgency of Arctic Policy Through New Legislation",2019-12-26,2019,2019-12,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON,
DC  U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), co-chair of the Senate Arctic
Caucus and member of both the Senate Armed Services Committee and Energy &
Natural Resources Committee, joined Senators Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) and Lisa
Murkowski (R-Alaska) to introduce Arctic Naval Focus Act of 2019. The
bill would direct the federal government to recognize the importance of the
Arctic region to the United States' national and economic security interests,
and to put forward a strategy for the U.S. fleet's ability to operate in the
Arctic and respond to challenges. The Arctic is
an emerging frontier for international commerce and military capabilities
required to protect national interests, which creates new opportunities for the
United States  and for potential adversaries, said Senator King. As
the impacts of climate change continue to affect this vital region, the U.S.
must be forward-thinking to establish and protect our leadership role in the
Arctic, and Maine's people and resources are a key component of this effort. As
the old Latin phrase goes: If you want peace, prepare for war.' The Arctic is
seen as a zone of international cooperation and we should aim to maintain this;
to do so, we need a strategy on how to assert ourselves in a corner of globe
that grows more important by the day, and this legislation is a much-needed
step toward that goal. The Arctic
Naval Focus Act of 2019 would: 
Codify
a series of findings on the strategic importance of the Arctic. 
Declare
that it is the policy of the U.S. to develop and deploy Naval capabilities to
meet the unique and growing challenges in the Arctic.  Require the Department of
Defense and Department of Homeland Security to
develop a detailed plan within one year for taking concrete steps to create an
operational and strategic support system for Arctic Naval surface operations
with set deadlines for implementation. Senator King is an advocate for Maine's interests in the
North Atlantic and Arctic region, and has worked in Washington to advance
Maine's leadership in the High North. In September he invited Senator Sullivan
on his monthly Inside Maine podcast to discuss U.S.
military challenges and opportunities in the Arctic. In July, he spoke at
the Woodrow Wilson International Center on the economic implications of
increased activity in the Arctic. In May 2018, hejoined
University of New England students, faculty, researchers, and staff as well as
leaderson North Atlantic and Arctic policy at the launch of the
Institute for North Atlantic Studies of the University of New England (UNE
NORTH). UNE NORTH is an initiative of the University of New England that aims
to help the next generation of leaders further responsible stewardship and
sustainable economic growth in the region. In 2015, Senator King traveled to Iceland, where he
participated in theArctic
Circle Assembly Plenary Session, speaking to the national security, climate
change, economic issues that make the region a significant policy priority for
the U.S. In October 2016, Senator King joined Maine people and leaders from
around the globe to attend theArctic
Council conferenceat the University of Southern Maine's Portland
Campus. He also visitedGreenland
on a fact-finding missionthat focused on examining the environmental
and security implications of the warming Arctic climate and traveled toIqaluit,
Canadato help usher in the United States' chairmanship of the Arctic
Council in 2015.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-criticizes-lack-of-transparency-in-saudi-arabias-khashoggi-trial,King Criticizes Lack of Transparency in Saudi Arabia’s Khashoggi Trial,2019-12-23,2019,2019-12,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.  The Office of U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) today released the following statement from Sen. King on today's announcement that five unnamed defendants have been sentenced to death for their role in the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, while a top aide to Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman was cleared of wrongdoing. When Sen. Young and I visited the Kingdom earlier this year, we made clear that for many in Congress any serious improvement in our bilateral relationship requires justice and accountability on the murder of Jamal Khashoggi  delivered clearly, publicly and without equivocation, said Sen. King. Between the secrecy surrounding the proceedings (including refusing to name those found guilty) and apparently not accounting for the role the Crown Prince's top aide Saud al-Qahtani played in the murder for a lack of evidence, effort, or possibly both  today's announcement does not seem to meet those criteria. If the Crown Prince wishes to truly bring Saudi Arabia into the 21st century and address the trust deficit between our two nations, he must commit to more transparent and complete justice, both now and in the future. I look forward to receiving more information on these developments from US diplomatic and intelligence officials in the near future. In September, Senator King traveled to Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Oman with Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) on the first congressional delegation visit to Saudi Arabia in over a year. In addition to pressing the Crown Prince on the death of Jamal Khashoggi, they also discussed the humanitarian and security crisis in Yemen and releasing pledged humanitarian relief. Following their visit, they wrote an op-ed in Defense News emphasizing the importance of transparency in the ongoing investigation of Khashoggi's murder.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-risch-bill-protecting-energy-grid-from-cyberattacks-becomes-law,"King, Risch Bill Protecting Energy Grid from Cyberattacks Becomes Law",2019-12-23,2019,2019-12,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senators Angus King (I-Maine) and Jim Risch (R-Idaho), both members of the Senate Intelligence Committee and the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, celebrated the enactment of their bipartisan Securing Energy Infrastructure Act into law. The legislation passed as part of the FY2020 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), and willdevelop defenses for the U.S. energy grid through partnerships between the National Laboratories and industry. The partnerships will utilize engineering concepts to remove vulnerabilities that could allow hackers to access the grid and the nation's critical infrastructure. The energy grid is central to nearly all facets of 21stcentury life, but remains vulnerable to hackers,said Senator King, co-chair of theCyberspace Solarium Commission.If this critical infrastructure is compromised, our financial transactions, communications networks, healthcare services, and much more will be at risk. This bipartisan, commonsense legislation will help defend our energy grid from attacks launched from thousands of miles away  I'm heartened to see this much-needed provision signed into law, and deeply grateful for the partnership of Senator Risch in this effort. The vulnerabilities afflicting our critical infrastructure are deeply troubling and there is strong bipartisan agreement that this issue requires our immediate attention, said Senator Risch. The Securing Energy Infrastructure Act has been many years in the making, and am confident our national laboratories, particularly the INL in my home state of Idaho, will lead this important research aimed at strengthening our grid security and preventing catastrophic cyberattacks. TheSecuring Energy Infrastructure Actaims to remove vulnerabilities that could allow hackers to access the energy grid through holes in digital software systems. Specifically the Securing Energy Infrastructure Act will direct the Department of Energy to examine ways to replace networked systems with less complex connections limiting paths to attack the systems. The legislation was part of theDamon Paul Nelson and Matthew Young Pollard Intelligence Authorization Act (IAA) for Fiscal Years 2018, 2019, and 2020, which was included in the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020. This legislation was inspired in part by Ukraine's experience in 2015, when a sophisticated cyber-attack on that country's power grid led to more than 225,000 people being left in the dark. The attack could have been worse if not for the fact that Ukraine relies on older, less networked technology to operate its grid. The senators' bill would build on this concept by studying ways to simplify and isolate the grid's most important control systems. More specifically, the legislation will: Establish a two-year pilot program within the National Laboratories to study covered entities and identify new classes of security vulnerabilities, and research and test technology that could be used to isolate the most critical systems of covered entities from cyber-attacks.Require the establishment of a working group to evaluate the technology solutions proposed by the National Laboratories and to develop a national cyber-informed strategy to isolate the energy grid from attacks. Members of the working group would include federal government agencies, the energy industry, a state or regional energy agency, the National Laboratories, and other groups with relevant experience.Require the Secretary of Energy to submit a report to Congress describing the results of the program, assessing the feasibility of the techniques considered, and outlining the results of the working groups' evaluation.Define covered entities under the bill as segments of the energy sector that have already been designated as entities where a cyber-security incident could result in catastrophic regional or national effects on public health or safety, economic security, or national security. In addition to Senators King and Risch, the legislation was cosponsored by Senators Susan M. Collins (R-Maine), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), and Mike Crapo (R-Idaho). A companion bill was introduced by Representatives Dutch Ruppersberger (D-Md.) and John Carter (R-Tex.) in the House of Representatives.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/legislation-supported-by-senators-collins-king-to-combat-rising-prescription-drug-prices-signed-into-law,"Legislation Supported By Senators Collins, King to Combat Rising Prescription Drug Prices Signed into Law",2019-12-21,2019,2019-12,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.  U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Angus King (I-Maine) announced that legislation they cosponsored to combat anticompetitive practices used by some brand-name drug companies to block entry of lower-cost generic drugs has been signed into law. The Creating and Restoring Equal Access To Equivalent Samples (CREATES) Act will deter pharmaceutical companies from blocking cheaper generic alternatives from entering the marketplace. The CREATES Act was included as part of the final appropriations package. Skyrocketing drug prices are making it more and more difficult for Americans to access the treatments they require. As Chairman of the Senate Aging Committee, addressing the rising costs of these medications is one of my top priorities, said Senator Collins. The CREATES Act combats the gaming that some brand companies engage in to unlawfully extend their market power and pricing controls. This bipartisan bill will have an immediate impact on the development and approval of generic and biosimilar drugs. The rising cost of prescription medication continues to be one of the most pressing issues facing Maine people, Senator King said. Whether it's a senior on a fixed income, or a working family trying to make ends meet, or an employer paying for private insurance, these prices are a serious challenge for Maine people across our state. Increased access togeneric medications will help Maine citizens take care of their health without having to sacrifice other important necessities  because no one should be forced to choose between taking an important medicine or putting food on the table. The Congressional Budget Office has estimated that the bill would result in a $3.9 billion net decrease in the federal deficit. Savings to consumers and private insurers likely would be far greater  many billions of dollars more. The legislation is strongly supported by a broad coalition of groups, including AARP, American College of Physicians, Coalition for Affordable Prescription Drugs, and many others. A coalition letter in support of the CREATES Act can be found here and a list of supporters here. In addition to Senators Collins and King, the CREATES Act was introduced by Senators Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) and Mike Lee (R-Utah), Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), John Kennedy (R-La.), Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Rand Paul (R-Ky.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), Jon Tester (D-Mont.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.) and Todd Young (R-Ind.). An outline of the CREATES Act can be found here, and text of legislation can be found here. In 2015, Senator Collins and then-Senator Claire McCaskill (D-MO) launched the Senate's first bipartisan investigation into the causes, impacts, and potential solutions to egregious price spikes for certain off-patent drugs. They released a report on their investigation in 2016. Following their investigation, Senators Collins and McCaskill authored a bill to improve generic competition and lower the cost of prescription drugs that was signed into law as part of the FDA Reauthorization Act. In October 2018, Senator Collins' legislation to prohibit the use of pharmacy gag clauses was also signed into law. Senator Collins is a cosponsor of the Safe and Affordable Drugs from Canada Act of 2019, legislation to permit the importation of prescription drugs from approved pharmacies in Canada. In January, Senator King announced his support for three bills that would reduce the cost of prescription drugs. The first bill, theEnd Taxpayer Subsidies for Drug Ads Act, would prohibit pharmaceutical drug manufacturers from claiming tax deductions for consumer advertising expenses, and theAffordable and Safe Prescription Drug Importation Actwould allow patients, pharmacists and wholesalers to import safe, affordable medicine from Canada and other major countries. TheEmpowering Medicare Seniors to Negotiate Drug Prices Actwouldallow for Medicare to negotiate the best possible price of prescription drugs to cut costs for nearly 43 million seniors enrolled in Medicare Part D. Current law only allows for bargaining by private plan sponsors and prohibits Medicare from doing so.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/bill-introduced-by-collins-king-to-authorize-coins-honoring-george-hw-bush-and-barbara-bush-passes-senate,"Bill Introduced by Collins, King to Authorize Coins Honoring George H.W. Bush and Barbara Bush Passes Senate",2019-12-20,2019,2019-12,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.  U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced that the Senate unanimously passed legislation they co-authored to authorize the U.S. Department of the Treasury to mint $1 coins honoring former president George H.W. Bush and first lady Barbara Bush. President and Mrs. Bush, who had strong ties to the State of Maine, both passed away in 2018. The legislation, which they introduced in February along with Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Ted Cruz (R-TX), and Rob Portman (R-OH), now heads to the U.S. House of Representatives to be considered. I treasured the friendship of President and Mrs. Bush and deeply miss visiting them each summer at their family home at Walker's Point. They loved the State of Maine and its people, and we are so proud to have had them as our neighbors and our friends, said Senator Collins. Courage, duty, honor, and compassion defined their lives and their public service to our nation. I am proud to have led this legislation to create this coin to help pay tribute to President and Mrs. Bush's wonderful legacy and serve as a reminder of their lasting contributions to Maine and our country. President George H.W. Bush and First Lady Barbara Bush dedicated their lives to public service and to improving the lives of others, and thanks to their special connection to Maine, our state's citizens got to see that dedication firsthand, said Senator King. The former President's remarkable career spanned decades, beginning in the U.S. Navy and leading him to Congress, the CIA, and the highest office in the land. The First Lady's passion for the wellbeing of children helped thousands in Maine at the Barbara Bush Children's Hospital in Portland, and many more around the country. The Bushes left legacies marked by dignity, generosity, and devotion  I'm proud to have led this bill to honor their service to our nation. The President George H.W. Bush and Barbara Bush Dollar Coin Act authorizes Treasury to mint $1 coins honoring the former president and first lady for the year 2019. Since these coins would be part of a coin series, they would not count against the current quota limiting commemorative coins to two per year. The coins would have no net cost to the U.S. government.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-backs-bill-to-help-rural-mothers-access-healthcare,King Backs Bill to Help Rural Mothers Access Healthcare,2019-12-20,2019,2019-12,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), a member of Bipartisan Policy Center's Rural Health Task Force, announced his cosponsorship of the Rural Maternal and Obstetric Modernization of Services (Rural MOMS) Act. The bipartisan bill would improve data collection, expand services, and award funding to help ensure that new and expecting moms living in rural communities get the care they need. New and expecting mothers deserve access to high-quality care, no matter where they live, said Senator King. Unfortunately, rural communities are lagging behind on access to this vital, life-saving care  and that's unacceptable. As one of the most rural states in the nation, this challenge is uniquely pressing in Maine, which is why I'm proud to cosponsor this bipartisan, commonsense legislation to protect the health of women during and after pregnancy. TheRuralMOMSActwould: Improve Rural Maternal and Obstetric Care Databy directing the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to coordinate efforts with respect to maternal mortality and morbidity, report on women's health conditions according to sociocultural and geographic contexts, and emphasize research on pregnancy-related deaths.Award New Rural Obstetric Network Grantsto establish regional innovation networks to improve maternal mortality and morbidity as well as birth outcomes.Expand Existing Federal Telehealth Grant Programsto include birth and postpartum services as part of telehealth networks and to allow federal funding to be used for ultrasound machines, fetal monitoring equipment, and other pregnancy-related technology.Establish a New Rural Maternal and Obstetric Care Training Demonstrationto support training for family medicine physicians, obstetricians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, midwives, doulas, and other professionals to provide maternal care services in rural community-based settings.Report on Maternal Care in Rural Areasto identify the locations of gaps in maternity care,disparities in maternal health in rural areas by race and ethnicity,recommendations to standardize data collection on maternal mortality and morbidity, and activities to improve maternal care in rural areas. During his time in the Senate, Senator King has been a strong advocate for accessible and affordable rural healthcare. In October, he helda panel discussion in Bangor with local healthcare providers and public wellness expertson the best ways to use prevention strategies to improve health outcomes and reduce costs. In November, Senator King announced his support for the Creating Opportunities Now for Necessary and Effective Care Technologies (CONNECT) for Health Act. In late July, he joined a bipartisan group of senators tourge the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to delay their proposed Rural Health Care (RHC) Programreport and order to better address the concerns of rural healthcare providers and medical communities. In theJune edition of his Inside Maine podcast, Senator King welcomed both U.S. Senator Tina Smith (D-Minn.) and Kris Doody, CEO of Cary Medical Center to discuss rural healthcare policy and ways to improve access to care across the country. Last year, Senator King and Senator Susan Collins (R-Maine)applaudeda draft proposal from Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Ajit Pai that significantly increased funding for the Universal Service Fund's Rural Health Care (RHC) Program. This increase in the RHC funding cap followed bipartisan letters Senator King led calling for the RHC program to bemodernizedandstrengthened. Also in the 115th Congress, Senator King cosponsored legislation such as theRural Emergency Acute Care Hospital Act, thePreserve Access to Medicare Rural Home Health Service Act, and theRural Hospital Access Act, all of which work to better healthcare services in Maine and the United States. In addition to Senator King, this bill is supported by U.S. Senators Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Doug Jones (D-Ala.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Kristen Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.). The RuralMOMSActis endorsed by:Association of Maternal & Child Health Programs; Every Mother Counts; American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists; National Birth Equity Collaborative;March of Dimes; Nurse-Family Partnership; and the National Rural Health Association.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/maine-delegation-calls-on-secretary-ross-to-protect-maine-lobster-industry-from-unfair-right-whale-conservation-measures,Maine Delegation Calls on Secretary Ross to Protect Maine Lobster Industry from Unfair Right Whale Conservation Measures,2019-12-20,2019,2019-12,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.In a continuation of their strong, bipartisan advocacy for fair treatment of Maine's lobster industry, U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King and Representatives Chellie Pingree and Jared Golden sent a letter to Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross, urging him to take action to protect Maine's lobster industry from unfairly burdensome regulations as the U.S. seeks to protect the right whale population. The Maine lobster fishery has repeatedly made significant improvements to their practices and modifications to their gear to protect right whales, including the implementation of weak link mandates in 1997 and again in 2007, Senators Collins and King and Representatives Pingree and Golden wrote. Notably, there have been no entanglements directly attributed to Maine lobster gear in more than 15 years. Further, National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) data demonstrates that ropes removed from right whales in recent years are not typical of those used in Maine's lobster fishery. This past summer, alone, eight mortalities were observed in the Canadian Gulf of St. Lawrence, representing the deaths of roughly two percent of the remaining population, the Maine Delegation continued. It has been incredibly frustrating for Maine lobstermen to see that, after implementing multiple effective mitigation measures over the past two decades, they continue to be the primary target of NOAA's burdensome regulations. NOAA's own data identify a number of other sources that contribute to North Atlantic right whale entanglements and serious injury and morality, including ship strikes and Canadian snow crab gear, the latter of which has entangled and killed at least 14 North Atlantic right whales. The Maine Delegation listed a number of policies the Commerce Department should pursue that would protect right whales while factoring in the true risk posed by various marine industries, including:   Resolving      the territorial dispute of the Gray Zone surrounding Machias Seal Island      to eliminate confusing, contrasting fishing regulations;    Evaluating      whether a potential emergency rulemaking is warranted to ban Canadian snow      crab fisheries from exporting fish to the U.S. under the Marine Mammal      Protection Act due to evidence that their industry is a chief contributor      to right whale entanglements and mortalities;    Addressing      ship strikes, which play a substantial role in the right whale      population's decline;    Reconsidering      trawling up requirements that set minimums on the number of traps per      buoy line, which creates increased risk to crewmembers of loss of life or      limb    Incorporating      feedback from Maine lobstermen to address their serious safety concerns      associated with the proposed placement of weak links in the endlines,      which in their current proposed form would result in weak links routinely      being stressed to or beyond their breaking points during typical fishing      activity. As NMFS endeavors to protect this unique marine species, we must do so without endangering human lives or livelihoods, the Maine delegation concluded. We look forward to your response and to working with you to implement right whale conservation measures that are effective and that do not unfairly burden the Maine lobster fishery. Click HERE to read the Maine Delegation's letter.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-passes-collins-king-bill-to-improve-broadband-data-maps,"Senate Passes Collins, King Bill to Improve Broadband Data Maps",2019-12-20,2019,2019-12,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King, co-chair of the Senate Rural Broadband Caucus, lauded the passage of the Broadband Deployment Accuracy and Technological Availability (DATA) Act, a bipartisan bill they co-sponsored. The legislation would increase the accuracy of the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) broadband availability maps by improving the process by which broadband data is collected. As a native of Aroostook County, I know how important access to high-speed Internet is to the vitality of rural communities, said Senator Collins. Broadband helps unlock the Internet's economic benefits by allowing residents to work from home, upgrade their skills through online education, stay connected to their families as they age in place, and access health care through advances in telemedicine. This bipartisan legislation would help us bridge the digital divide between urban and rural communities through improved data collection. One of my top legislative priorities is expanding high-speed broadband access to rural Maine communities  but if we don't have good data to work from, we won't know where to make the right investments, said Senator King. We need to improve and modernize the FCC's method of data collection so rural communities in need aren't left behind in an increasingly digital world. This is a critically important step that will make sure we'reinvesting in the right places to close the digital divide and bring all of the internet's opportunities to rural Maine people. Specifically, the Broadband DATA Act: Requires the FCC to collect highly detailed service availability data from wired, fixed wireless, and satellite broadband providers.Requires strong parameters for service availability data collected from mobile broadband providers to ensure accuracy.Asks the FCC to consider whether to collect verified coverage data from state, local, and tribal governments, as well as from other entities.Creates a process for consumers, state, local, Tribal governments, and other groups to challenge FCC maps with their own data, and requires the FCC to determine how to structure the process without making it overly burdensome on challengers. Earlier this year, Senators Collins and Doug Jones (D-AL) introduced the American Broadband Buildout Act of 2019 (ABBA), a bipartisan bill to ensure that rural Americans have access to broadband services. As a co-chair of the Senate Broadband Caucus, Senator King has been a strong advocate for improved broadband mapping data. Cosponsoring the Broadband DATA Act is his latest effort to improve the accuracy of FCC broadband maps. In September 2018, Senator Kingwrote a letter to the USDAseeking specific provisions in the ReConnect broadband pilot program, including acquiring up-to-date broadband mapping data. USDA incorporated these provisions in itsregulations for the programthat it issued in December 2018. Senator King also renewedhis push for up-to-date broadband mapsin a February 2019 letter to FCC Chairman Ajit Pai, which was co-signed by a bipartisan group of 10 Senators.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/bill-co-sponsored-by-collins-king-to-crack-down-on-illegal-robocalls-headed-to-presidents-desk-to-be-signed-into-law,"Bill Co-Sponsored by Collins, King to Crack Down on Illegal Robocalls Headed to President’s Desk to be Signed into Law",2019-12-19,2019,2019-12,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.  Amidst ever-increasing numbers of robocall scams, the U.S. Senate voted unanimously today to pass legislation co-sponsored by Senators Susan Collins and Angus King to increase federal law enforcement's authority to put a stop to these illegal calls. The Telephone Robocall Abuse Criminal Enforcement and Deterrence (TRACED) Act makes it easier for regulators to find scammers, increases civil forfeiture penalties for those who are caught, promotes call authentication and blocking adoption, and brings relevant federal agencies and state attorneys general together to address impediments to criminal prosecution of robocallers who intentionally flout laws. The bill now heads to the President's desk to be signed into law. Americans are being inundated with illegal robocalls that are not only a major nuisance, but also a tool that is often used by con artists to perpetrate crimes, said Senator Collins, the Chairman of the Aging Committee. Over the course of the two dozen hearings I have held to expose and examine scams, it is clear that a coordinated approach is necessary to put a stop to these illegal calls. The TRACED Act is a significant step forward that will help prevent fraudulent calls and put criminals on notice that they will be caught and brought to justice. I am pleased that the final version of the legislation was improved by including an extension of the statute of limitations for caller-ID spoofing' violations, which I advocated for. At best, illegal robocalls are a major annoyance  at worst, they're scams that target our most vulnerable citizens, said Senator King. Today's overwhelmingly bipartisan vote reflects the obvious: Republicans, Democrats and Independents can all agree that it's time to hang up on illegal robocalls once and for all. The TRACED Act will:  Broaden the authority of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to levy civil penalties of up to $10,000 per call on people who intentionally flout telemarketing restrictions;  Extend the window for the FCC to catch and take civil enforcement action against intentional violations to three years after a robocall is placed. Under current law, the FCC has only one year to do so, and the FCC has said that even a one-year longer statute of limitations for enforcement would improve enforcement against willful violators;  Require telephone companies to adopt call authentication technologies, enabling a telephone carrier to verify that incoming calls are legitimate before they reach consumers' phones;  Requires telephone companies to provide robocall blocking technology at no additional charge; and  Direct the FCC to initiate rulemaking to help protect subscribers from receiving unwanted calls or texts from callers Asone reportestimated, nearly half of all calls made to mobile phones will be spam by the end of this year. The TRACED Act would give the FCC more flexibility to enforce rules in the short term, while setting in motion consultations to increase prosecutions of violations, which often require international cooperation. As Chairman of the Senate Aging Committee, one of Senator Collins' top priorities is to combat scams that target seniors. Earlier this year, she introduced a bill that would extend the statute of limitations on spoofing. The TRACED Act includes a provision extendingfrom the current two years to four yearsthe amount of time law enforcement can bring charges against criminal robocallers who use spoofing to mask their identity. Senator Collins has held 24 hearings over the past seven years on issues related to fraud and scams targeting older adults. Additionally, the Aging Committee published the 2019 Fraud Book, which details the top 10 scams reported to the Committee's toll-free Fraud Hotline (1-855-303-9470) last year. Since signing on to the TRACED Act in March, Senator King has used the legislation to raise awareness on the topic and push for Congressional action to protect vulnerable Americans from these scams.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-statement-on-house-vote-to-advance-articles-of-impeachment,King Statement on House Vote to Advance Articles of Impeachment,2019-12-19,2019,2019-12,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives voted to impeach President Donald Trump: The House's vote to impeach the President means that I will soon join the rest of the Senate in swearing a special oath that states: I solemnly swear that in all things appertaining to the trial of Donald Trump, now pending, I will do impartial justice according to the Constitution and laws, so help me God.' The word solemn captures the moment correctly  this is an immense responsibility and a monumental event in the history of this nation. When the trial begins in the Senate I will do everything I can to fulfill this new oath as well as my core oath to uphold and defend the Constitution. I hope and expect that each of my colleagues will do the same.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/maine-priorities-king-initiatives-included-in-federal-budget-bills,"Maine Priorities, King Initiatives Included in Federal Budget Bills",2019-12-19,2019,2019-12,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) today cast his vote for appropriations bills that will fund the government through September 30, 2020. The appropriations package funds a number of King-backed policy priorities for Maine, and includes language from numerous King-backed bills. This appropriations package supports much needed national priorities: it works to cut prescription drug costs, support Gold Star families, boost rural health, and much, much more. It makes one wonder: why aren't we doing more legislating like this? said Senator King. The answer, of course, is that the Majority Leader is blocking nearly all legislation from the floor. This obstruction is holding Congress back from enacting bipartisan, commonsense policies that will make life better for the American people  let's stop playing political games, and recommit ourselves to the work we were sent here to accomplish: coming together around shared goals and doing the work of the American people. King-backed provisions included in today's bills include: Health, Wellness, and Public Safety Lowering Drug Prices. Senator King is a cosponsor of the bipartisan Creating and Restoring Equal Access To Equivalent Samples Act, which is included in the appropriations package. The legislation closes anti-competitive loopholes used by brand-name pharmaceutical companies to block lower-cost generic drugs from entering the marketplace.Fighting Opioid Abuse. The legislation provides $3.8 billion to fight opioid abuse, focused on improving treatment and prevention efforts. Senator King has made combating the opioid crisis one of his top priorities in Washington, and several of his provisions were included in the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act which passed in October 2018.Researching Gun Violence. The legislation includes $25 million for gun violence research at the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and National Institutes of Health (NIH). Senator King is a cosponsor of the Gun Violence Prevention Act, which would authorize up to $50 million in funding for gun violence prevention research at the CDC. This is the first federal funding for gun violence research in 20 years. Supporting Rural Health. The package provides $318.3 million for rural health program, including $29 million for telehealth. Senator King is a co-chair of the Bipartisan Policy Center's Honorary Congressional Task Force on Rural Health, and is a cosponsor of the CONNECT Act to expand telehealth services through Medicare. Boosts for the Maine Economy Extending Paid Family Leave Tax Credit. The legislation extends a tax credit for employers who voluntarily offer up to 12 weeks of paid family leave. The credit, based on Senator King's Strong Families Act, is the first nationwide paid family leave program. Initially included in the 2017 tax bill as a two-year tax credit, this package extends the provision for an additional year. This is the second King-backed win for paid family leave in less than two weeks; last week, the Senate passed paid parental leave for federal employees in the National Defense Authorization Act after Senator King's advocacy.Bolstering Workforce Development: The spending bills provide $2.82 billion for Workforce Investment Opportunity Act Training Grants to support a range of locally-led efforts to bolster workforce readiness and in-demand skills. Promoting Tourism: Senator King is a cosponsor of the BrandUSA Extension Act, which is included in the package. The legislation will provide an additional seven years of funding to BrandUSA, a public-private partnership that works to draw international visitors to the United States. Additional Priorities Reversing Tax Increase for Gold Star Families. The appropriations package includes the Gold Star Families Tax Relief Act, legislation cosponsored by Senator King that reverses a provision included in the 2017 tax act that imposed massive taxes on the families of U.S. servicemembers who died while on active duty.Funding Clean Energy and Energy Efficiency Research & Development. The legislation provides a record $2.84 billion in funding for the Department of Energy's Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy program. King, a member of the Senate Climate Solutions Caucus, has backed a bill to increase energy efficiency capabilities across the nation by 2035. The bill provides $7 billion to Office of Science for programs that conduct research on new and clean energy technologies.King has long advocated for the need on new scientific research into energy technology development.Preserving Nonprofit Status of Rural Electrical Co-Ops. The spending bills include the King-cosponsored RURAL Act, which would preserve the nonprofit status of rural electric co-ops that accept disaster aid or support for rural broadband initiatives. The RURAL Act corrects a provision in the 2017 tax bill that threatened the nonprofit status  and, accordingly, the viability  of rural electric co-ops.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/on-rural-broadband-king-urges-fcc-make-it-a-top-priority,"On Rural Broadband, King Urges FCC Make it a Top Priority",2019-12-18,2019,2019-12,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), co-chair of the Senate Broadband Caucus, joined dozens of his Senate colleagues in urging the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to prioritize sustainable rural broadband networks as the FCC considers new rules to govern the Rural Digital Opportunity Fund (RDOF) program. In the bipartisan letter, the senators push the FCC to exercise proper oversight over RDOF funding, and ensure that projects are maximizing the long-term impact of their efforts to improve broadband access throughout rural America. If our rural communities are to survive and flourish, our rural constituents need access to services that are on par with those in urban areas, the senators write. By contrast, it would be an inefficient use of resources to promote services that cannot keep pace with consumer demand and the evolution of broadband in urban areas. As the FCC moves forward to adopt new rules in the Rural Digital Opportunity Fund proceeding, we urge you to promote the deployment of networks that will be sustainable even as new advancements are made and are capable of delivering the best level of broadband access for the available USF budget for many years to come. Digital connectivity in rural regions is a key priority ofSenator King's economic agendaandrural broadband roadmap, to help modernize and grow Maine's rural economy, support innovation, and create jobs. In July, he cosponsored theBroadband Deployment Accuracy and Technological Availability (DATA) Act, which will increase the accuracy of the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) broadband availability maps by improving the process by which broadband data is collected. In May, Senators King and Capito reintroduced legislation tomeasure the economic impact of broadbandso state and federal policymakers can understand the return they will receive on any investments in digital infrastructure. The legislation had previouslypassed the Senate in December, but was not taken up by the House.In April, Senator King joined his colleagues to introducelegislation to promote digital equityso Americans of all background can have equal access to the opportunities created by the internet. In addition to Senator King, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators John Thune (R-S.D.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Bob Casey (D-Pa.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-N.V.), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Kevin Cramer (D-N.D.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Mike Enzi (R-Wyo.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Kristen Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), Angus King (I-Maine), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Martha McSally (Ariz.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.V.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), David Perdue (R-Ga.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), James Risch (R-Idaho), Pat Roberts (R-Kan.), Jacky Rosen (D-N.V.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Kyrsten Sinema (D-Ariz.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), Tom Tillis (R-N.C.), Tom Udall (D-N.M.), and Todd Young (R-Ind.). The full letter can be read below or downloaded HERE   +++  The Honorable Ajit Pai  Chairman, Federal Communications Commission  445 12th Street Southwest  Washington, D.C. 20554                                                                                                              Dear Chairman Pai: As the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) considers new rules in the Rural Digital Opportunity Fund proceeding, we write to emphasize the importance of sustainable networks that meet the needs of consumers now and in the future. Given that the FCC plays a critical role in connecting rural communities to high-speed internet through the universal service fund (USF), we encourage the FCC to make the most efficient and effective use of those funds. Any large-scale infrastructure project requires reasonable planning that takes account not only of current needs, but also of projected demands over the life of the asset being funded; and the distribution of USF should be no different. For broadband specifically, this requires that networks, built using USF, must be capable of delivering speeds, latency, and usage capacity according to what the FCC deems necessary to meet the needs of consumers over the next decade. If our rural communities are to survive and flourish, our rural constituents need access to services that are on par with those in urban areas. By contrast, it would be an inefficient use of resources to promote services that cannot keep pace with consumer demand and the evolution of broadband in urban areas. As the FCC moves forward to adopt new rules in the Rural Digital Opportunity Fund proceeding, we urge you to promote the deployment of networks that will be sustainable even as new advancements are made and are capable of delivering the best level of broadband access for the available USF budget for many years to come. Similarly, we believe it is important for the FCC to be responsible for USF resources and ensure that those parties receiving such support can deliver on the commitments they make. This requires monitoring and reporting once USF support is received to guarantee it is being used as intended. The FCC should also make sure before the auction occurs that the participants in the auction can successfully deliver on their promises. If a party is incapable of delivering broadband as promised, the American ratepayer loses twice over  first for having contributed sums that did not go toward the deployment of broadband as hoped, and then again for those ratepayers who reside in the area that ended up not receiving the promised service. It is therefore critical that any use of an auction to distribute USF support include meaningful processes upfront to prequalify bidders. This should apply to all bidders, regardless of the technology they propose to use or the performance levels they promise to deliver. Thank you for your work to deploy reliable broadband networks in rural America. We look forward to working with you to help close the digital divide and provide rural American consumers with the same kinds of digital opportunities that many others take for granted.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/maine-delegation-urges-usda-to-heed-maine-dacfs-comments-on-interim-final-hemp-rule,Maine Delegation Urges USDA to Heed Maine DACF’s Comments on Interim Final Hemp Rule,2019-12-17,2019,2019-12,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.Senators Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Angus King (I-Maine) and Representatives Chellie Pingree (D-ME-01) and Jared Golden (D-ME-02) wrote to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), urging the agency to heed the formal comments and concerns of the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation, and Forestry (DACF) on the interim final rule on domestic hemp production. A signed copy of the letter can be foundhere. As you know, theAgriculture Improvement Act of 2018created a legal pathway for domestic hemp production. We appreciate that [USDA] published an interim final rule on October 31, 2019 to implement those farm bill provisions, providing much needed certainty for hemp growers and businesses in Maine and across the country.said the Maine delegation in the letter.As [USDA] works on drafting a final rule, we respectfully request your consideration of DACF's comments and concerns. Hemp, which is grown in every Maine county,contains less than .3% THC and can be used for a variety of products, including rope, textile, and paper. Thestate's hempindustry has seen massive growth over the past year;more than2,000 acres were planted in 2019, up from 550 acres in 2018. Much of that acreage is cultivated for CBD use. The interim final rule was released by USDA on October 31, 2019. Public comment is open on the hemp rule untilDecember 31, 2019. In addition to supporting DACF's comments on USDA's interim rule establishing a Domestic Hemp Production Program, the delegation has also worked to address the financing obstacles that hemp-producing businesses have encountered.Despite the 2018 Farm Bill'slegalization ofhemp, the lack of clarity in federal banking regulations has created major barriers for hemp businesses. Pingree and Golden firstwrote to USDAon April 30, 2019 to ask for expedited hemp regulations and clarity for Maine farmers. The Secure and Fair Enforcement (SAFE) Banking Act (HR 1595), passed the House with support from Pingree and Golden in September. The bill wouldallowfinancial institutionsto servecannabis-related businessesin states where it has been legalized.Senator King is acosponsor of the Senate version of the SAFE Banking Act (S 1200), andin Novemberwrote a letter to the Senate Banking Committee expressing his supportfor the House-passed bill. Pingree and Golden againwrote to USDAon October 23, 2019, urging expedited rules for hemp in light of the news that Sheepscot Farman organic u-pick strawberry farm that also grows hemphad lost accounts at both their bank and insurance company due to uncertainty in federal regulations and a lack of guidance by USDA. Pingree held a roundtable with farmers on USDA's interim final hemp rule at Sheepscot General yesterday.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-passes-king-backed-priorities-for-maine-nation-in-defense-bill,"Senate Passes King-Backed Priorities for Maine, Nation in Defense Bill",2019-12-17,2019,2019-12,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today cast his vote in favor of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2020, by a vote of 86-8. The legislation includes key policy wins to ensure national security, support Maine jobs, strengthen energy security and provide paid parental leave for federal employees. Each year, the National Defense Authorization Act is example of how legislating should work: thoughtfully crafted, with an emphasis on bipartisanship and national security, said Senator King. This year is no exception. This NDAA will make America safer, support Maine people protecting our nation, and provide much-needed benefits for public servants including a pay increase for and paid parental leave for federal employees. It's a monumental piece of legislation, and I look forward to seeing the President sign it into law. Senator King successfully advocated for the inclusion of many provisions that will improve national security and support Maine jobs, including: FUNDING SHIPBUILDING PRIORITIES.The legislation authorizes more than $5 billion for the procurement of 3 DDG-51 Arleigh Burke-class destroyers in fiscal year 2020, which Bath Iron Works (BIW) can compete to build. It also authorizes $484 million to fund future year DDG-51 procurements. In addition, the legislation authorizes funds for the completion of the DDG-1000 Zumwalt-class destroyers, all of which are being built at BIW.PRIORITIZING CYBERSECURITY STRATEGY.The legislation emphasizes the importance of building the capabilities of the United States to prevent and respond to cyberattacks by bad actors.Senator King has long been an active voice urging additional focus on cyber threats, and as co-chair of the Cyberspace Solarium Commission, he is leading a bipartisan group to review the threats facing America in cyberspace and provide strategic guidance and policy recommendations on how to defend ourselves against cyberthreats.INCREASING RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT FUNDING.Senator King successfully pushed for the inclusion of additional funds for Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation programs, including funding for research on advanced manufacturing, electric propulsion, advanced planning hulls, and hybrid composite structures. Maine research institutions and companies will be eligible to compete for some of these projects.PROCURING MILITARY TECHNOLOGY THAT SUPPORTS MAINE JOBS.The legislation authorizes funding to procure six CH-53K helicopters, which include components produced at Hunting Dearborn in Fryeberg. In addition, the legislation includes provisions backed by Senator King to support military personnel, including: INCREASING MILITARY PAY.The legislation authorizes a 3.1 percent pay raise for members of the Armed Forces.ADDRESSING THE SIGNIFICANT PROBLEMS IN PRIVATIZED MILITARY HOUSING.The legislation authorizes an additional $301.8 million to oversee private military housing and creates new mechanisms of accountability for private military housing companies. Additionally, the legislation includes a King amendment that provides for the creation of a pilot program to explore alternative approaches that can improve the experience for families living in military housing. In last week's SASC hearing,Senator King pressed top military officialsto address the ongoing challenges facing military families who in privatized housing. Finally, Senator King successfully pushed for provisions to support DOD efforts to protect the environment and public health, and ensure energy security, including: ADVANCING CLEAN TECHNOLOGY INNOVATIONS:Senator King successfully pushed for the legislation to authorize $10 million in funding for on-base long duration energy storage projects that will last for at least 100 hours. He also secured a provision authorizing $10 million to be spent on the development, demonstration and validation of secure microgrids for both installations and forward operating bases.IMPROVING ENERGY RESILIENCY:The 2020 NDAA authorizes funds to support military programs aimed at improving defense-wide energy resiliency work, including $150 million for the Energy Resilience and Conservation Investment Program and an additional $25 million for the Readiness and Environmental Protection Integration Program. These programs not only increase resiliency, but also advance groundbreaking innovation to help keep our military personnel safe and reduce costs.PROHIBITING DOD FROM ACQURING FIREFIGHTING PRODUCTS CONTAINING PFAS.Per and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, are dangerous chemicals linked to a number of adverse health and environmental effects that have long been used in products like firefighting foam. The NDAA prohibits DOD from procuring firefighting foam that contains PFAS after October 1, 2024. In addition, Senator King successfully advocated for an amendment that provides $15 million to develop new, safer tools to fight fires.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-support-resolution-recognizing-critical-role-of-2020-census,"Collins, King Support Resolution Recognizing Critical Role of 2020 Census",2019-12-16,2019,2019-12,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Angus King (I-Maine) joined their colleagues on a bipartisan resolutionto emphasize the importance of a fair and accurate 2020 Census. The resolution encourages individuals, families, and households across the United States to take part in the Census so that all communities can be counted. The Census is a central part of America's democracy that dates back to our nation's founding, said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. Census data provides critical information to ensure accurate representation in Congress, and is a major factor that determines federal funding for much-needed local investments into roads, schools, and more. We urge Maine people to take all necessary steps to ensure they are properly counted when this process begins in 2020. The 2020 Census is a constitutionally-mandated undertaking. The data collected is used to properly allocate seats for the U.S. House of Representatives and state legislatures. It also directs more than $800 billion annually in federal funding to state and local communities. The resolution recognizes the importance and significance of the 2020 Census and encourages all people to participate. It concludes that it is the civic duty of every person to ensure that the 2020 Census is as accurate as possible by counting everyone once, only once and in the right place. For a PDF copy of the resolution, click here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/after-advocating-for-paid-parental-leave-king-applauds-inclusion-of-new-policy-for-all-federal-employees-in-fy2020-ndaa,"After Advocating for Paid Parental Leave, King Applauds Inclusion of New Policy for All Federal Employees in FY2020 NDAA",2019-12-13,2019,2019-12,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"BRUNSWICK, ME Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) applauded the inclusion of paid parental leave for federal workers in the FY2020 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The legislation will allow new parents to take up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave after the birth, adoption or fostering of a child, effective October 1st, 2020. Earlier this year, Senator King joined 21 of his Senate colleagues in urging the inclusion of paid leave in the conference report of the NDAA. Paid parental leave strengthens our economy by helping keep folks in the workforce and promotes strong families by giving parents the opportunity to stay with their child without sacrificing financially, said Senator King. The policy just makes sense  but for some reason, America is the only industrialized nation that doesn't guarantee paid leave to new parents. That's got to change. The inclusion of this provision to support federal workers is a major step in the right direction on the path creating a new standard that supports both America's workers and economy. Senator King has been outspoken in his support for the Family and Medical Leave Act, and has worked to build on its legacy to support paid family and medical leave legislation. He is a cosponsor of theFamily and Medical Insurance Leave Act(FAMILY) Act,legislation that would create a social insurance program to provide up to 12 weeks of gender-neutral paid family and medical leave for all private-sector members of the American workforce who have sufficient work history.Senator King is also an original sponsor of theStrong Families Act,bipartisan, bicameral legislation that would create a five-year, 25 percent tax credit for employers who voluntarily offer up to 12 weeks of paid family leave to employees.A version of the Strong Families Act with a two-year window wasenacted into lawin December 2017 as part of the tax bill.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-more-than-600000-for-13-maine-businesses-to-make-energy-efficiency-improvements-install-renewable-energy-systems,"Collins, King Announce More Than $600,000 for 13 Maine Businesses to Make Energy Efficiency Improvements, Install Renewable Energy Systems",2019-12-13,2019,2019-12,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.  U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has awarded a total of $606,696 to help 13 businesses throughout Maine lower their energy costs through solar panel installations. This funding is awarded through USDA's Rural Energy for America Program (REAP). Renewable energy installations not only have an important role in reducing harmful emissions, but can also save businesses money by substantially lowering their heating and electricity costs, said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. We welcome this important funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture that will allow 13 Maine businesses to install solar panel systems, helping them save thousands of dollars per year in energy costs. The funding is allocated as follows: Balfour Farm, LLC, in Pittsfield has been awarded $11,362 to purchase and install a 9.6 kW solar PV array. This project will replace 7,538 kWh (4.93) and save $10,347 per year.Brooks, Inc., in Thomaston has been awarded $50,000 to purchase and install a 115.9 kW solar electric roof-mounted system. This project will replace 123,877 kWh (86%) and save $16,104 per year.Brown Enterprises, LLC, in Monmouth has been awarded $27,500 to purchase and install a 56.88 kW solar electric roof-mounted system. This project will save $8,706 per year and generate 66,968 kWh annually, replacing all of the business' energy needs.Cranberry Isles Fishermen's Co-op in Islesford has been awarded $31,047 to purchase and install a 45.36kW solar electric roof-mounted system. This project will save $8,020 per year and generate 51,088 kWh annually, replacing all of the business' energy needs.Edwin Pelletier and Sons, Inc., in Frenchville has been awarded $37,710 to purchase and install a 61.6 kW solar PV ground-mounted system. This project will replace 74,237 kWh (95%) and save $10,393 per year.Leavitt Farms, LLC, in Limestone has been awarded $89,615 to purchase and install a 153 kW solar PV ground-mounted system. This project will save $35,900 per year and generate 274,963 kWh annually, replacing all of the business' energy needs.Lubec Brewing Company, LLC, in Lubec has been awarded $34,456 to purchase and install a 42 kW solar PV ground-mounted system. This project will save $5,485 per year and generate 50,220 kWh annually, replacing all of the business' energy need.Maine Beer Company, LLC, in Freeport has been awarded $90,878 to purchase and install a 193.71kW solar electric roof-mounted system. This project will replace 223,762 kWh (51%) and save $33,027 per year.Morningstar Marble and Granite, Inc., in Topsham has been awarded $60,000 to purchase and install a 161.28kW solar PV roof-mounted system. This project will replace 171,112 kWh (92%) and save $22,245 per year.Pol, Inc., in Millinocket has been awarded $92,839 to purchase and install a 171 kW Solar PV ground-mounted system. This project will save $18,515 per year and generate 205,420 kWh annually, replacing all of the business' energy needs.Sheepscot General, LLC, in Whitefield has been awarded $26,750 to purchase and install a 54.6 kW solar PV roof-mounted system. This project will replace 70,856 kWh (74%) and save $9,636 in per year.The Baker Company, LLC, in Sanford has been awarded $18,146 to purchase and install a 219.52kW solar electric roof-mounted system. This project will replace 241,958 kWh (15%) and save $31,455 per year.The Milkhouse, LLC, in Monmouth has been awarded $36,393 to purchase and install a 72kW Solar PV roof-mounted system. This project will save $10,249 per year and generate 71,410 kWh annually, replacing all the business' energy needs. Recipients can use REAP funding for energy audits and to install renewable energy systems such as biomass, geothermal, hydropower, and solar. The funding can also be used to increase energy efficiency by making improvements to heating, ventilation, and cooling systems; insulation; and lighting and refrigeration.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-opens-new-constituent-service-office-on-main-street-in-biddeford,King Opens New Constituent Service Office on Main Street in Biddeford,2019-12-13,2019,2019-12,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"BIDDEFORD, ME Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) joined members of his staff, local officials, and Maine people for the ribbon cutting of his new Biddeford office, located at227 Main Street. The new office, which is centrally located and available via public transit, will improve Senator King's efforts to be accessible to his constituents. When it came time to look for a new office in Southern Maine, the old adage stuck in my mind: location, location, location,'said Senator King.This office is located on the heart of Biddeford's Main Street, meaning we're more visible and more accessible to Maine people. Whether you're looking to share your opinion on the latest Washington happenings or need help navigating the federal bureaucracy, just know that we're open for business in Biddeford! Constituent services available at the Biddeford location include navigating issues with federal agencies, listening to concerns regarding government policies and programs, and providing updates on Senator King's positions and work in the U.S. Senate.In addition to the Biddeford location, Senator King also has offices in Augusta, Bangor, and Presque Isle, and is evaluating options to add at least one more office in the near future.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-56-million-investment-in-caribou-utilities-district,"Collins, King Announce $5.6 Million Investment in Caribou Utilities District",2019-12-12,2019,2019-12,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.  U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced that the Caribou Utilities District received a grant of $1,400,000 and a loan of $4,200,000 through the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Office of Rural Development to upgrade Caribou's wastewater treatment facility and collection system. The project will help prevent overflows of untreated or partially treated wastewater during wet weather. Maintaining and upgrading water infrastructure is vital to ensuring the economic and environmental health of communities,saidSenators Collins and King in a joint statement. We welcome this significant funding for Caribou to improve its wastewater treatment system, which will help to preserve water quality and public health, increase operation efficiencies at the treatment facility, and protect the surrounding environment. The improvements at Caribou's wastewater treatment facility will include removing sludge, removing and replacing old aeration piping and equipment, replacing lagoon liner, improving hydraulic connectivity between lagoons and the chlorine contact tank, increasing the capacity of lagoons, and replacing blowers and controls. The Water and Waste Disposal grant program aims to help rural communities establish best practices that can save tax dollars, improve the environment, and help manufacturers and businesses to establish or expand operations.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-cosponsors-bipartisan-bill-preventing-future-government-shutdowns,King Cosponsors Bipartisan Bill Preventing Future Government Shutdowns,2019-12-12,2019,2019-12,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.  As the federal government approaches another budget deadline on December 20th, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) is joining a bipartisan group of colleagues to introduce the Prevent Government Shutdowns Act. If signed into law, the commonsense bill would set up an automatic Continuing Resolution (CR) at the current spending level until an agreement is enacted, preventing a government-wide shutdown, continuing critical services and operations, and keeping federal employees at work while Congress negotiates. In addition to Senator King, the bill is supported by U.S. Senators James Lankford (R-Okla.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), and Joni Ernst (R-Iowa). When Washington's dysfunction repeatedly hurts hardworking Americans, it's clear that something needs to change, said Senator King. We've seen the impacts of shutdowns too many times: families left struggling, local small businesses seeing stark declines in their traffic, and Americans scrambling to receive the federal services they rely on. We can fix this  let's come together on a bipartisan basis and make government shutdowns a thing of the past. The bipartisan proposal is a simple solution to address the threat of government shutdowns. If all appropriations bills are not passed by Congress and signed by the President by October 1, no official travel will be allowed for Office of Management and Budget (OMB) leadership or staff, Members of Congress, or their committee and personal staffs. The bill requires that during a period of lapsed appropriations, there will be: No taxpayer-funded travel allowances for official business (except one return flight to Washington, DC) for the following: White House OMB staff and leadership; Members of the House and Senate; Committee and personal staff of the House and SenateOfficial travel permitted within the national capital region (DC metro-area)No travel reimbursement (meals, per diem, or any type, including for state and district staff)No use of campaign funds by congressional offices to supplement official duties or travel expensesNo other votes will be in order in the House and Senate unless they pertain to passage of the appropriations bills or mandatory quorum calls in the SenateNo motions to recess or adjourn the Senate or House for more than 23 hours are in order No other matter can be considered on the floor of the Senate unless it relates to: General appropriations measures (including a CR); Daily mandatory quorum calls;Implementation of an automatic continuing resolution (CR) on October 1 at last year's spending levels until passage of a law to appropriateall remaining lapsed spending for that fiscal yearExpedited consideration of bipartisan appropriations bills is provided for after 30 days to ensure that each chamber is further incentivized to process spending bills and fund the governmentA required recorded quorum call vote each day at noon in the House and Senate to confirm attendance, which keeps Members in town for mandatory votesAn effective date of September 30, 2020.   During the 35-day partial shutdown at the beginning of 2019, Senator King made reopening the federal government his top priority. His January podcast featured Senator Kaine and Kristen Miale, President of the Good Shepherd Food Bank in Auburn, discussing the effects of the shutdown on federal employees in Maine and around the country. Senator King also participated ina bipartisanappeal on the floor of the U.S. Senate, and ina video messageemphasizing the negative impact the government shutdown is having on people across Maine  including U.S. Coast Guard personnel and families. In addition, Senator King has worked to reduce the impact of the 2019 shutdown on federal workers. He was a cosponsor of theGovernment Employee Fair Treatment Act, a bipartisan bill to ensure that affected federal workers will receive back pay when the government is reopened, and was a cosponsor of theFair Compensation for Low-Wage Contractor Employees Act,a bill which wouldhave secured back pay for the federal contractor employees who went without pay during the government shutdown.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-212-million-for-health-centers-in-cumberland-and-piscataquis-counties,"Collins, King Announce $2.12 Million for Health Centers in Cumberland and Piscataquis Counties",2019-12-11,2019,2019-12,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.  U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has awarded $1,492,719 in funding to Greater Portland Health in Cumberland County and $635,688 for Sebasticook Family Doctors in Piscataquis County. Access to quality, affordable health care is crucial to the well-being of Maine communities, said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. This important funding will help Greater Portland Health and Sebasticook Family Doctors continue to provide cost-effective primary and preventive care that is critical to many Mainers in Cumberland and Piscataquis counties. This funding was awarded through the Health Resources and Services Administration's (HRSA) Health Center Cluster Program at HHS, which is tasked with improving access to health care by building healthy communities, strengthening the health care workforce, and achieving health equity. HRSA's programs target the economic and medically vulnerable as well as the geographically isolated.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-join-bipartisan-group-of-senators-on-letter-to-un-convention-in-support-of-global-efforts-to-combat-climate-change,"Collins, King Join Bipartisan Group of Senators on Letter to UN Convention in Support of Global Efforts to Combat Climate Change",2019-12-11,2019,2019-12,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.  U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King joined a bipartisan group of Senators in sending a letter to Patricia Espinosa, Executive Secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), in support of its global efforts to thwart climate change. The 25th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 25) is underway in Madrid to convene a meeting on the historic Paris Climate Agreement. Failing to address the worsening crisis of climate change will wreak damages on all Americans for centuries into the future. Now more than ever, the American people are demanding action on climate change from our federal government and our international partners, wrote the Senators. In a moment where the commitment of the United States to address climate change seems threadbare, we, the undersigned, assure you that we are working diligently to respond to this global threat and we support your efforts in Madrid. In their letter, the Senators urged the UNFCCC and all international participants in the convention to explore all solutions and paths forward to combat the effects of climate change. In closing, the Senators reiterated there is bipartisan support in Congress to take action.  The letter was also signed by U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Chris Coons (D-DE), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Jack Reed (D-RI), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Tom Udall (D-NM), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Patty Murray (D-WA), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Bob Casey (D-PA), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Patrick Leahy (D-VT) and Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Joe Manchin (D-WV). The letter can be read here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-celebrates-wins-for-maine-priorities-in-finalized-defense-authorization-bill,King Celebrates Wins for Maine Priorities in Finalized Defense Authorization Bill,2019-12-11,2019,2019-12,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today announced that the House-Senate conference committee's bicameral agreement on the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2020 included key policy and project wins for Maine. Senator King served on the conference committee that reconciled the differences between the Senate's version, which passed by a vote of 86-8, and version advanced by the House of Representatives. The conference report now must be voted on and passed in both chambers of Congress. The conference committee has crafted a bill that makes our nation safer, updates policies and safeguards that needed reforms, provides much-needed benefits for our military personnel, and supports Maine jobs, said Senator King. This is a good piece of legislation, and I look forward to seeing it move through Congress and to the President's desks in short order. Senator King successfully advocated for the inclusion of many provisions that will improve national security and support Maine jobs, including: FUNDING SHIPBUILDING PRIORITIES. The legislation authorizes more than $5.1 billion for the procurement of 3 DDG-51 Arleigh Burke-class destroyers in fiscal year 2020, which Bath Iron Works (BIW) can compete to build. It also authorizes $484 million to fund future year DDG-51 procurements. In addition, the legislation authorizes funds for the completion of the DDG-1000 Zumwalt-class destroyers, all of which are being built at BIW.PRIORITIZING CYBERSECURITY STRATEGY. The legislation emphasizes the importance of building the capabilities of the United States to prevent and respond to cyberattacks by bad actors.Senator King has long been an active voice urging additional focus on cyber threats, and as co-chair of the Cyberspace Solarium Commission, he is leading a bipartisan group to review the threats facing America in cyberspace and provide strategic guidance and policy recommendations on how to defend ourselves against cyberthreats.INCREASING RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT FUNDING. Senator King successfully pushed for the inclusion of additional funds for Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation programs, including funding for research on advanced manufacturing, electric propulsion, advanced planning hulls, and hybrid composite structures. Maine research institutions and companies will be eligible to compete for some of these projects.PROCURING MILITARY TECHNOLOGY THAT SUPPORTS MAINE JOBS. The legislation authorizes funding to procure six CH-53K helicopters, which include components produced at Hunting Dearborn in Fryeberg. In addition, Senator King successfully pushed for provisions to support DOD efforts to protect the environment and public health, and ensure energy security, including: ADVANCING CLEAN TECHNOLOGY INNOVATIONS: Senator King successfully pushed for the legislation to authorize $10 million in funding for on-base long duration energy storage projects that will last for at least 100 hours. He also secured a provision authorizing $10 million to be spent on the development, demonstration and validation of secure microgrids for both installations and forward operating bases.IMPROVING ENERGY RESILIENCY: The 2020 NDAA authorizes funds to support military programs aimed at improving defense-wide energy resiliency work, including $150 million for the Energy Resilience and Conservation Investment Program and an additional $25 million for the Readiness and Environmental Protection Integration Program. These programs not only increase resiliency, but also advance groundbreaking innovation to help keep our military personnel safe and reduce costs.PROHIBITING DOD FROM ACQURING FIREFIGHTING PRODUCTS CONTAINING PFAS. Per and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, are dangerous chemicals linked to a number of adverse health and environmental effects that have long been used in products like firefighting foam. The NDAA prohibits DOD from procuring firefighting foam that contains PFAS after October 1, 2022. In addition, Senator King successfully advocated for an amendment that provides $15 million to develop new, safer tools to fight fires. Finally, the legislation includes provisions backed by Senator King to support military personnel, including: INCREASING MILITARY PAY. The legislation authorizes a 3.1 percent pay raise for members of the Armed Forces.ADDRESSING THE SIGNIFICANT PROBLEMS IN PRIVATIZED MILITARY HOUSING. The legislation authorizes an additional $301.8 million to oversee private military housing and creates new mechanisms of accountability for private military housing companies. Additionally, the legislation includes a King amendment that provides for the creation of a pilot program to explore alternative approaches that can improve the experience for families living in military housing. In last week's SASC hearing, Senator King pressed top military officials to address the ongoing challenges facing military families who in privatized housing.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-legislation-protecting-energy-grid-from-cyberattacks-included-in-finalized-2020-defense-authorization-bill,King Legislation Protecting Energy Grid from Cyberattacks Included in Finalized 2020 Defense Authorization Bill,2019-12-11,2019,2019-12,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), co-chair of the Cyberspace Solarium Commission, today announced that the House-Senate conference committee's version of the FY 2020 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) includes the Securing Energy Infrastructure Act, a bipartisan bill introduced by Senators King and Jim Risch (R-Idaho). Both Senators are members of the Senate Intelligence Committee and the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources (ENR). The legislation will develop defenses for the U.S. energy grid through partnerships between the National Laboratories and industry. Specifically, the partnerships will utilize engineering concepts to remove vulnerabilities that could allow hackers to access the grid through holes in digital software systems. The energy grid powers our financial transactions, communications networks, healthcare services and most of our daily life so if this critical infrastructure is compromised by a hacker, these building blocks of American life are at risk, said Senator King. Protecting our energy grid is commonsense, bipartisan, and vital to national security, and I'm happy this year's NDAA will enshrine this needed provision into law. TheSecuring Energy Infrastructure Actaims to remove vulnerabilities that could allow hackers to access the energy grid through holes in digital software systems. Specifically, it will direct the Department of Energy to examine ways that replacing automated systems with low-tech redundancies, like manual procedures controlled by human operators, may be helpful in adverting cyberattacks. This approach seeks to thwart even the most sophisticated cyber-adversaries who, if they are intent on accessing the grid, would have to actually physically touch the equipment, thereby making cyber-attacks much more difficult. The Securing Energy Infrastructure Act was part of theDamon Paul Nelson and Matthew Young Pollard Intelligence Authorization Act (IAA) for Fiscal Years 2018, 2019, and 2020, which was included in the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020. This legislation was inspired in part by Ukraine's experience in 2015, when a sophisticated cyber-attack on that country's power grid led to more than 225,000 people being left in the dark. The attack could have been worse if not for the fact that Ukraine relies on manual technology to operate its grid. The Senator's bill would build on this concept by studying ways to strategically use retro technology to isolate the grid's most important control systems. More specifically, the legislation would: Establish a two-year pilot program within the National Laboratories to study covered entities and identify new classes of security vulnerabilities, and research and test technology  like analog devices  that could be used to isolate the most critical systems of covered entities from cyber-attacks.Require the establishment of a working group to evaluate the technology solutions proposed by the National Laboratories and to develop a national cyber-informed strategy to isolate the energy grid from attacks. Members of the working group would include federal government agencies, the energy industry, a state or regional energy agency, the National Laboratories, and other groups with relevant experience.Require the Secretary of Energy to submit a report to Congress describing the results of the program, assessing the feasibility of the techniques considered, and outlining the results of the working groups' evaluation.Define covered entities under the bill as segments of the energy sector that have already been designated as entities where a cyber-security incident could result in catastrophic regional or national effects on public health or safety, economic security, or national security.In addition to Senators King and Risch, the legislation is cosponsored by Senators Susan M. Collins (R-Maine), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), and Mike Crapo (R-Idaho). A companion bill has been introduced by Representatives Dutch Ruppersberger (D-Md.) and John Carter (R-Tex.) in the House of Representatives.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-unanimously-passes-collins-king-resolution-marking-december-14-2019-as-wreaths-across-america-day,"Senate Unanimously Passes Collins, King Resolution Marking December 14, 2019, as “Wreaths Across America Day”",2019-12-10,2019,2019-12,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.- The Senate unanimously passed a resolution introduced by U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King designating Saturday, December 14, 2019, as Wreaths Across America Day. On December 14, a convoy of volunteers is scheduled to arrive at Arlington National Cemetery to lay Maine-made balsam wreaths at the headstones of American veterans interred there. Patriot Guard Riders will once again continue their tradition of escorting the wreath trucks from Maine down the East Coast, along with other patriotic escorts including motorcycle units, law enforcement officers, and first responders. International Paper, which has a corrugated packaging facility in Auburn, is donating 7,500 boxes and helping to purchase wreaths and transport them to Arlington National Cemetery. Tens of thousands of volunteers are expected to participate in this proud tradition. Each year through Wreaths Across America, tens of thousands of Americans take time out of the busy holiday season to pause and pay tribute to those who served in defense of our nation. This Maine-led tradition of placing wreaths on the graves of our fallen heroes has become an inspiring and enduring symbol of our nation's gratitude for veterans' valor and sacrifice, said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. We are grateful for all of the volunteers who Remember, Honor, Teach' through Wreaths Across America. Last year, approximately 1.8 million wreaths were laid at more than 1,700 locations in all 50 states. In addition, more than 9,300 wreaths were laid at Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial in Colleville-sur-Mer, France. Senators Collins and King took part in the official, bipartisan Senate delegation to this cemetery in June to commemorate the 75th anniversary of D-Day. This year, in addition to the wreaths that will be laid at Arlington and all 50 states, nearly 15,000 wreaths were laid at two American Veteran Cemeteries in Luxembourg and the Netherlands in honor of the 75th Anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge. Senator Collins' father was a World War II veteran who was wounded twice during the Battle of the Bulge.  The text of the resolution is availableHERE.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/amid-npr-investigation-collins-king-join-push-for-department-of-education-to-investigate-permanent-disability-loan-forgiveness-program,"Amid NPR Investigation, Collins, King Join Push for Department of Education to Investigate Permanent Disability Loan Forgiveness Program",2019-12-09,2019,2019-12,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Angus King (I-Maine) joined a bipartisan group of Senate colleagues in sending a letter to the U.S. Department of Education urging the Department's Acting Inspector General, Sandra Bruce, to investigate the federal student loan discharge process forAmericans with total and permanent disabilities (TPD). Themembers' letter comes after an alarming report fromNational Public Radio (NPR), posted earlier this week, which found that hundreds of thousands of Americanswith qualifying disabilitieshave not received the student loan relief they are entitled to by law. In addition to Senators Collins and King, the letter was signed by Senators Chris Coons (D-Del.), Cory Gardner (R-Colo.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), and Rob Portman (R-Ohio) along with U.S. Representatives Ron Kind (D-Wis.), Jim Langevin (D-R.I.), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-Pa.), and Don Young (R-Alaska). We are alarmed by the findings in thisNPRinvestigation, the reported extremely low rate of loan discharges for eligible borrowers, and the contrast between theNPRreport and the information previously provided by ED,wrote the senators.We are also concerned by ED's lack of transparency with Congress and failure to provide timely, verifiable information. Most importantly, it appears that ED's process for TPD loan discharges is failing to provide student loan relief to hundreds of thousands of Americans, including veterans, who are entitled to this relief under the law. The full letter can be read below, or downloaded HERE. +++ The Honorable Sandra D. Bruce Acting Inspector General Office of Inspector General U.S. Department of Education 550 12th Street, S.W. Washington, D.C. 20202 Dear Acting Inspector General Bruce: We write with serious concern about the Department of Education's (ED) process to discharge federal student loans for totally and permanently disabled Americans, including veterans. Under theHigher Education Act of 1965, individuals who are totally and permanently disabled (TPD) are eligible to have their outstanding federal student loans forgiven. Under theTax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, federal student loans that are discharged due to death or TPD are exempt from federal income tax. ED currently utilizes data provided through matching agreements with the Social Security Administration (SSA) and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to identify disabled federal student loan borrowers who may be eligible for TPD loan discharge. In August 2019, the Trump Administration announced that borrowers identified through VA data would automatically have their loans discharged. Yet borrowers matched with SSA data, including veterans with non-service-connected disabilities, still must submit a discharge application. As we have said before, despite the existing legal benefit for loan discharge and the removal of the federal tax penalty two years ago, many borrowers, in applying for relief, face significant challenges that are both administratively burdensome and unnecessary. We wrote to ED on a bipartisan basis several times urging the Administration to automatically discharge these federal student loans, including in letters sent on February 15, 2018, and October 9, 2019. Our letter in October cited data provided to our staff by ED that as of March 2019, only 40% of eligible borrowers identified in the SSA match have had their loans discharged. However, according to aNational Public Radio(NPR)report that aired on December 4, 2019, that is not the case[1]. The investigation found that between March 2016 and September 2019, 555,000 borrowers were identified through the SSA data match as eligible for TPD discharge and were sent a letter in the mail. Ultimately, only 156,000, or 28%, of those borrowers had their loans discharged or are on track for that to happen. These numbers do not include borrowers matched through VA data, information we still have not seen. We are alarmed by the findings in thisNPRinvestigation, the reported extremely low rate of loan discharges for eligible borrowers, and the contrast between theNPRreport and the information previously provided by ED. We are also concerned by ED's lack of transparency with Congress and failure to provide timely, verifiable information. Most importantly, it appears that ED's process for TPD loan discharges is failing to provide student loan relief to hundreds of thousands of Americans, including veterans, who are entitled to this relief under the law. We urge ED's Office of Inspector General to investigate the TPD loan discharge process immediately and answer the following questions: 1. How many individuals in total have been identified through ED's data match with the SSA and the VA since March 2016? Please list the numbers for SSA and VA separately. 2. How many of these matched borrowers have received a loan discharge? 3. Of those borrowers who were matched but ultimately did not receive a loan discharge, what are the reasons the discharge did not occur? How many borrowers are associated with each reason, including income monitoring? 4. Why has the Administration rejected bipartisan calls to pursue automatic discharge for Americans with non-service-related disabilities? 5. How can ED improve its data system for the TPD process and ensure this information is communicated with Congress in a transparent and timely manner? 6. What steps does ED need to take to make this process automatic, meaning once a borrower is flagged as eligible, the discharge is not contingent upon administrative work by the borrower at the point of discharge or any point thereafter? Enclosed are the cited letters from February 15, 2018, and October 9, 2019. We appreciate your attention to this important matter and request a commitment to investigate these questions by December 31, 2019.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/in-tennessee-senators-king-and-alexander-celebrate-umaine/ornl-partnership-beneficial-to-maines-rural-economy,"In Tennessee, Senators King and Alexander Celebrate UMaine/ORNL Partnership Beneficial to Maine’s Rural Economy",2019-12-06,2019,2019-12,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"OAK RIDGE, TN  Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) joined U.S. Senator Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.) and top officials from the University of Maine (UMaine) to tour Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. The partnership between ORNL and UMaine advances research inadditive manufacturing and 3D printing using bio-based products, which will create new markets for Maine's forest products industry and support innovation in a broad range of industries in Maine including boat building, composites, and civil engineering. The partnership recently resulted in the unveiling of the world's largest polymer 3D printer and largest 3D printed object. During today's visit, participants toured the lab's state-of-the-art facilities, examined 3D printer use in advanced manufacturing, and discussed opportunities to expand the partnership between the two institutions. Maine is blessed with an abundance of wood fiber, and thanks to the collaboration of UMaine and ORNL, we're finding all sorts of new ways to use this resource, said Senator King. This partnership has already made important strides, and with two top-notch research facilities working on it, I know more advances are coming. The combination of these two world-class facilities is a boon for Maine's forest economy, and for all the people and communities who rely on this historic industry. The work being done here deeply matters to Maine people, and I can't wait to see what they discover next. I enjoyed hosting my friend, Senator Angus King and the University of Maine in Oak Ridge today, where we were able to visit Oak Ridge National Laboratory and see firsthand the lab's 3D printing technology, said Senator Alexander. National laboratories are our secret weapon in the rapidly changing world economy, and the partnership between the University of Maine and the Oak Ridge National Laboratory is a model for how science and technology can transform our economy and advanced manufacturing. We appreciate the opportunity to visit this world-class laboratory with Senator King and Senator Alexander to see the extraordinary and compelling work up close, said Joan Ferrini-Mundy, President of the University of Maine. The University of Maine is excited to grow and advance its partnership with Oak Ridge National Laboratory. UMaine's Advanced Structures and Composites Center and Oak Ridge are collaborating with 20 companies and universities in Maine and Tennessee, fostering opportunities for discovery that benefit the students, workforce and economy in Maine and beyond. This initial effort is a great model of collaboration that we hope to expand into many other areas, including building technologies, transportation and advanced computing/AI. ""Our visit to Oak Ridge National Laboratory confirms the wisdom of the partnership we have already established and the importance of expanding the relationship to benefit the Maine economy and our collective national interests,"" said Dannel Malloy, Chancellor of the University of Maine System. ""We are grateful that Senators King and Alexander were able to participate in our tour and for the support we receive from the entire Maine congressional delegation for our public university research mission."" The partnership between ORNL and UMaine launched a first-in-the-nation, large-scale bio-based additive manufacturing program. The cooperation provides UMaine's Advanced Structures & Composites Center (ASCC) students, faculty and associated companies with access to ORNL's assets and expertise in advanced manufacturing. ORNL researchers, in turn, gained access to UMaine's facilities and expertise in sustainable composites. The partnership will continue to advance 3D printing capabilities with wood residuals, establishing Maine as a global leader in a new manufacturing process and developing fresh markets for Maine's forest products industry. Senator King is a strong supporter of efforts to revitalize Maine's forest economy to further economic opportunities for Maine people. He was key in establishingthe Forest Opportunity Roadmap Maine (FOR/ME) Initiative, an industry-led initiative that is helping to diversify the state's wood products businesses, attract investments, support research and development, and develop greater economic prosperity for rural communities impacted by mill closures. The FOR/ME Initiative was funded as a result of the Economic Development Assessment Team (EDAT)requested by Senators Susan Collins (R-Maine) and King in 2016, with support from the U.S. Department of Commerce's Economic Development Administration in order to create strategies for job growth and economic development in Maine's rural communities. FOR/ME is implementing a roadmap and action plan for the development of new markets for Maine's forest resources, including the strengthening of existing forest products manufacturing, the attraction of investment in emerging technology, and the utilization of forest products residuals in CHP biomass plants, microgrids, modern thermal systems, and new forest products development. The FOR/ME Initiative has already resulted inmultiplefunding opportunities for Maine organizations and new investment in Maine's forest economy.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-risch-lead-colleagues-in-protecting-energy-infrastructure-from-critical-threats-posed-by-huawei-technology,"King, Risch Lead Colleagues In Protecting Energy Infrastructure from “Critical” Threats Posed by Huawei Technology",2019-12-06,2019,2019-12,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senators Angus King (I-Maine) and Jim Risch (R-Idaho) led a bipartisan group of senators in sending a letter to Neil Chatterjee, Chairman of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), emphasizing the dangers of incorporating equipment manufactured by Huawei Technologies Co. (Huawei) into the nation's critical infrastructure. In the letter, King, Risch, and 8 of their colleagues ask for Chatterjee's assurance that FERC understands the threat posed to U.S. national security by the Chinese-owned telecommunications company, and urge FERC to work with the Administration to combat the threat. In addition to King and Risch, today's letter was also signed by Senators Richard Burr (R-N.C.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Ben Sasse (R-Neb.), Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), and John Cornyn (R-Texas). As you know, the Intelligence Community has issued repeated warnings to regulators and political leaders about the dangers associated with using Huawei equipment on the nation's telecommunications network, wrote the senators. Congress and the Trump Administration have taken steps to eliminate Huawei products from national security sensitive applications, citing concerns with the company's links to the Chinese Communist party, including its intelligence services. Given FERC's responsibility for overseeing the reliability of the electric grid, it is critical that your agency take steps to ensure that United States critical infrastructure and the electric grid remain protected from foreign intrusion."" The Administration will ultimately need to address the full scope of the threat posed by Huawei, including consideration of a ban on the company's entry into the U.S. inverter market, the senators continued. In the meantime, we urge FERC and its new cybersecurity division to work closely with the Department of Homeland Security, the Department of Energy and its National Laboratories, industry, utilities, and other federal, state and local regulators to curb threats and protect critical infrastructure. Senators King and Risch are both members of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, and Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. The Senators have introduced the bipartisan Securing Energy Infrastructure Act to protect the nation's energy grid from potential cyberattacks. The legislation  which passed the Senate in June, and the House in July  would defend the U.S. energy grid by partnering with industry to utilize engineering concepts to remove vulnerabilities that could allow hackers to access the grid through holes in digital software systems. The full letter can be downloaded HERE and read below. +++ The Honorable Neil Chatterjee Chairman  Federal Energy Regulatory Commission 888 First Street, NE Washington, DC 20426 Dear Chairman Chatterjee, We write today to get assurances from you that the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) fully appreciates the threat posed to the nation's energy infrastructure by the use of equipment manufactured by Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd (Huawei). Creating a new cybersecurity division within your agency is a good start. We are hopeful that one of the new division's first objectives will be to defend this infrastructure against the threats posed by the use of equipment manufactured by Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd (Huawei). As you know, the Intelligence Community has issued repeated warnings to regulators and political leaders about the dangers associated with using Huawei equipment on the nation's telecommunications network. Congress and the Trump Administration have taken steps to eliminate Huawei products from national security sensitive applications, citing concerns with the company's links to the Chinese Communist party, including its intelligence services. Given FERC's responsibility for overseeing the reliability of the electric grid, it is critical that your agency take steps to ensure that United States critical infrastructure and the electric grid remain protected from foreign intrusion. While Huawei announced earlier this year that it intended to exit the U.S. solar market, there are no guarantees. Huawei's line of solar products relies on inverters  devices that manage and convert energy produced by solar panels  for use in homes and businesses. Huawei-produced inverters connected to the U.S. energy grid could leave it vulnerable to foreign surveillance and interference, and could potentially give Beijing access to meddle with portions of America's electricity supply. The Administration will ultimately need to address the full scope of the threat posed by Huawei, including consideration of a ban on the company's entry into the U.S. inverter market. In the meantime, we urge FERC and its new cybersecurity division to work closely with the Department of Homeland Security, the Department of Energy and its National Laboratories, industry, utilities, and other federal, state and local regulators to curb threats and protect critical infrastructure. We offer our assistance, as it is imperative that Congress, the Administration and others in the private and public sector work closely together to protect our most vital assets from domestic and foreign threats. Thank you for your attention to this important matter.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-presses-defense-department-leaders-on-cyberattack-deterrence-strategies-emphasizes-emerging-threats-to-us,"King Presses Defense Department Leaders on Cyberattack Deterrence Strategies, Emphasizes Emerging Threats to U.S.",2019-12-05,2019,2019-12,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, in a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), highlighted the U.S. military's dramatic need for deterrence strategies against cyberattacks  one of his key concerns as co-chair of the Cyberspace Solarium Commission. Later in the hearing, Senator King noted that the United States should focus its resources on combatting emerging threats, such as Russia's development of nightmare weapon hypersonic missiles. Let me focus on a particular issue of deterrence that I've been doing a lot of work on, and am puzzling about, and that is cyber deterrence, said Senator King. And particularly cyber deterrence, I would call it below the threshold of catastrophe, in other words, a cyberattack that disables our entire electric grid I think everyone would agree deserves a clear and unequivocal response. What about a cyberattack that freezes the voter registration lists in Florida a week before the election? How do we deter those kinds of attacks? My sense is we've had Sony, we've had OPM, we've had 2016 with very little if any substantive response, and that our adversaries don't fear us, to put it most bluntly in terms of cyberattacks on this country. Mr. John Rood, the Under Secretary Of Defense For Policy responded by recognizing Senator King's leadership on cyber deterrence policy: Yes Senator, and I recall you raising this with me during my confirmation visit with you, and it's something you've been a leader on in pursuing this type of activity. I would say since that time, you and I met two years ago, we have put in place now a cyberstrategy and one of the primary aspects of that is it calls for defending forward. We will no longer wait, if we're observing indications of planning for an attack, for an adversary to spring that attack. +++  Later, Senator King mentioned the new threats that the U.S. faces as Russia develops new defenses. Are we adequately confronting new threats, drone swarms, hypersonics, cyber? Senator King asked. Here's an example, and it gets back to money, and we're talking about how much we're spending. We're spending twice as much as China and Russia combinedBut still, we're spending ten times what Russia spends; [Vladimir] Putin can hire 12,000 hackers for the cost of one jet fighter, and I think all would agree that what he did in 2016 was a pretty effective attack on our country I think the area of technology and confronting emerging threats is a real area where there has to be some good strategic thinking and investments. In addition to Mr. Rood, today's hearing featured testimony from Lieutenant U.S. Air Force General David Allvin, the Joint Staff Director For Strategy, Plans And Policy. As a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, Senator King is recognized as a leading voice on national security and foreign policy issues in the Senate. In addition to his committee work, he serves on the Congressional-Executive Commission on China,the Senate North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Observer Group, and theCyberspace Solarium Commission. During his time in the Senate, Senator King has been a strong advocate for functional and effective cyberpolicy, and deterring cyberattacks on American elections and everyday life. Senator King and U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho) introduced theSecuring Energy Infrastructure Act, which waspassed by both the Senate and the House of Representatives in Julyas part of each chamber's version of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). In late May, Senator King cosponsoredtheElection Security Act, which would require voter-verifiable backup paper ballots and provide election security grants to states for cyber improvements and audits. Earlier that month, he highlighted thefactors that could lead to election cybersecurity issues to members of the U.S. Election Assistance Commission (EAC), the commission who provide best practices when certifying voting machines. In March, Senator King sent aletterto the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) requesting information about NERC's efforts to protect the United States' bulk power system from supply chain vulnerabilities, particularly those posed by vendors from Russia and China. In a February hearing, Senator King emphasizedthe need for urgent action, and questioned NERC President and CEO James Robb about the dangers of foreign equipment in America's energy grid.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-announce-over-25-million-for-head-start-programs-in-york-hancock-county,"Senators Collins, King Announce Over $2.5 Million for Head Start Programs in York, Hancock County",2019-12-05,2019,2019-12,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, U.S. Senators Susan Collins
(R-Maine) and Angus King (I-Maine) announced that the U.S. Department of Health
and Human Services (HHS) Administration for Children and Families has awarded
$1,398,216 to York County Community Action Corporation in Sanford, and
$1,113,626 to Downeast Community Partners in Ellsworth for Head Start and Early
Head Start programs. The programs provide free early childhood education and
childcare to low-income families. Head Start programs provide a
safe, educational, and enjoyable environment for Maine's children to make
connections and learn from their caregivers and peers  and every nickel spent
is a judicious investment in Maine's future, said Senators Collins and King
in a joint statement. In order to attend school or participate in the
workforce, parents need assurances that their children are being well cared
for. This funding provides much-needed resources to support early childhood
development in York and Hancock County, giving Maine's kids the strong
foundation they need to grow. Head Start was
established in 1965 to promote school readiness and provide a comprehensive
array of health, nutritional, and social services to eligible four- and
five-year-old preschoolers and their families. Head Start services include
early learning, health, and family well-being. This funding supports
local agencies that provide Head Start services across the country.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/how-is-that-fair_king-demands-parity-for-maine-blueberry-farmers-on-senate-floor,“How is That Fair?” – King Demands Parity for Maine Blueberry Farmers on Senate Floor,2019-12-04,2019,2019-12,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) spoke on the Senate floor about the challenges facing Maine blueberry farmers due to the U.S./China trade war and China's retaliatory tariffs  totaling up to 97% in lost China sales since the tariffs took effect. Despite the heavy losses the trade war has inflicted on Maine's wild blueberry industry, producers have not seen any relief or assistance in the ongoing multi-billion dollar farm bailout. Just today, Senator King sent a letter to U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) Robert Lighthizer and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Sonny Perdue urging them to help wild blueberry producers whose livelihood has been put at risk by the ongoing Chinese trade war. Now, blueberries have been exported from Maine since the 1840's. And the people who are in this farming business are tough, they're resilient, they don't want bailouts. They want to be able to sell their product on the market, said Senator King in his speech. But in recent years, the market for blueberries has been very difficult because of imports from Canada and additional cultivated blueberries from around the country. So our farmers, being entrepreneurial and doing what we have been telling them to do for years, have gone big time into the export market. Where is a great place to export? China. Two years ago, $2.5 million a year ofblueberries were going to China,and half of the budget of the wildblueberry export commission wasgoing to develop the Chinesemarket. Hours and hours, days,dollars, a lot of effort went todevelop this Chinese market.And then all of a sudden camethe Trump administrationtariffs Now, the president just said yesterday this trade war with China may go on for another year. That means another crop, that means people  we have third and fourth-generation blueberry farmers in Maine leaving the land. It's heartbreaking. These aren't big enterprises. These aren't big operations. These are people with 100-acre farms. Now, the Administration knows about this because I, and my colleagues from Maine, wrote them in July and asked this question  wild blueberries should be included in what's called the [USDA] Market Facilitation Program. Didn't happen. And we still don't really know what the criteria is. Just to put a fine point on it, if you're a wild blueberry harvester with a 100-acre farm, you get zip, zero, nada, zilch. If you're a cranberry farmer with a 100-acre bog, you get $61,000. How is that fair? How is the distinction made? That's the question that we're asking, concluded Sen. King. I've written again today to the Department of Agriculture asking them: A. why we aren't in, and, B. how the distinctions are made. I don't think that's an unreasonable question These are tough people. These are resilient people. These are hardworking people. These are people that have given their lives to the land, and they deserve to be supported by their government, not undermined, not challenged, not undercut by their government. Today's floor speech marks Senator King's latest effort to advocate for Maine industries affected by harmful trade negotiations. In July, Senator King joined the Maine Delegation to send a letter urging the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to include the wild blueberry industry in the USDA's Market Facilitation Program. Earlier that month, the Delegation sent a letterurging the U.S. Department of Agriculture to include significant funding for Maine's lobster industryas the Department finalizes their aid package for agricultural producers affected by China's retaliatory tariffs. The letter follows up on the Delegation'sinitial request in Juneto provide relief for Maine's lobster industry amidst the ongoing trade war with China.In February, the Maine Delegation wrote two letters urging the Administration to prioritizelobstersandpotatoesin the ongoing trade negotiations with China.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-joins-colleagues-in-fighting-against-housing-discrimination,King Joins Colleagues in Fighting Against Housing Discrimination,2019-12-04,2019,2019-12,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) joined 45 of his senate colleagues on a letter to U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Ben Carson, urging him to reject a proposed rule that would make it more difficult for victims of discrimination to seek justice under the Fair Housing Act (FHA). The Proposed Rule would significantly reduce use of the disparate impact standard for fair housing enforcement  a key tool for rooting out and eliminating hidden discrimination  and carve out avenues for financial institutions, governments, and other housing market participants to continue discriminatory practices. We are deeply troubled by the direction this Administration is heading in relation to Fair Lending and Fair Housing protections, the senators wrote. Housing is the foundation of opportunity for individuals, families, neighborhoods, and society. Preventing housing discrimination  including subtle, hidden discrimination  is central to the mission Congress charged HUD to carry out. We urge you to uphold this mission, reject the changes in the Proposed Rule, and preserve the existing rule. Senator King has advocated to preserve housing protections under the FHA for all Americans. This spring, he introduced the Fair and Equal Housing Act of 2019, legislation that would add gender identity and sexual orientation to the classes protected from discrimination under the FHA to ensure equal housing opportunities for all Americans. The FHA currently prohibits housing discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, familial status, or disability but not sexual orientation or gender identity. He has also led a bipartisan legislative effort to create an Affordable Housing Task Force, and introduced a bipartisan bill to ensure that students who have experienced homelessness or are currently homeless can access affordable housing while pursuing their education. The full text of the letter can be foundHEREand below:  +++  The Honorable Benjamin S. Carson, Sr. Secretary United States Department of Housing and Urban Development 451 Seventh Street S.W. Washington, DC 20410 Dear Secretary Carson: We are deeply troubled by the direction this Administration is heading in relation to Fair Lending and Fair Housing protections. Specifically, we are writing to urge you to reject changes proposed in the Department of Housing and Urban Development's (HUD) August 19, 2019 Proposed Rulemaking: HUD's Implementation of the Fair Housing Act's Disparate Impact Standard (the Proposed Rule). Congress enacted the Fair Housing Act in the wake of the 1968 assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. This landmark legislation struck down discriminatory practices like redlining, which had excluded racial and ethnic minority communities from access to credit, and called upon HUD and its grantees to affirmatively further fair housing. The Fair Housing Act prohibits housing discrimination in the sale, rental, or financing of housing or other housing-related activities on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, disability, familial status, or national origin.[1] While much progress has been made in the half century since Congress adopted the Fair Housing Act, the nation has more work to do to realize its promise. According to the National Fair Housing Alliance, over 4 million instances of housing discrimination occur each year,[2] and the nation faces tremendous racial disparities in income, wealth, and homeownership. For example, there is a 32 point gap between the homeownership rates for Black and white households, and a 26 point gap between Hispanic and white households.[3] In too many instances, a person's access to opportunity and quality of life are determined by where they live in communities that still reflect the legacy of historic redlining. HUD's existing Disparate Impact Rule codified a longstanding tool for identifying and remedying housing discrimination under the Fair Housing Act. It was built on four decades of jurisprudence and validated in the Supreme Court's 2015 decision upholding the use of disparate impact theory under the Fair Housing Act, Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs v. Inclusive Communities Project (Inclusive Communities) The current rule relies on a balanced, three-part burden-shifting framework that follows the same formula as other anti-discrimination legal standards and has been used for decades to seek fair housing access for Black and Hispanic people, individuals with disabilities, families with children, and victims of domestic violence. At a recent Banking Committee hearing, you claimed that HUD is simply offering this Proposed Rule in order to better reflect the Supreme Court's ruling in Inclusive Communities. But under HUD's proposed framework, disparate impact would exist in name only. HUD's proposal would dramatically shift the current balanced three-part test affirmed by the Supreme Court in Inclusive Communities to require a plaintiff to meet a five-part test to essentially prove their entire case  and disprove the defendant's case  before even bringing suit, without the benefit of discovery. Rather than reflect the Inclusive Communities ruling, this Proposed Rule would undo the ruling by making it nearly impossible to prove the disparate impact standard. While raising the legal bar for victims of discrimination, the Proposed Rule provides new defenses that will allow financial institutions, insurance companies, governments, and other market participants to continue unnecessary, discriminatory practices. This includes a new safe harbor for policies or practices driven by algorithms. Society is grappling with the far-ranging effects of opaque and proprietary algorithms  often based on data harvested from our online activities  on our daily lives. Algorithms are only as good as the data they are fed and many elements that appear neutral on their face have proven to reinforce discriminatory patterns of the past. Despite these questions, the Proposed Rule offers an expansive safe harbor for business practices that rely on algorithms to make important decisions governing access to housing, such as credit scores, automated underwriting, and rental tenant-screening systems. This broad exemption will prevent people who have been excluded from housing based on flawed data from having an opportunity to seek redress. The Proposed Rule contains other provisions that will also place a heavy thumb on the scale for market participants at the expense of people experiencing discrimination. It would permit corporations and others to defend a discriminatory practice simply because implementing a less discriminatory policy would impose some greater cost or burden on them. At the same time, the Proposed Rule fails to acknowledge the costs that discrimination imposes on individuals and society when some of its members are denied a fair chance at housing. The Proposed Rule also reduces institutions' accountability and incentives to assess the fair housing results of their policy choices by removing any expectation that they would collect data necessary to track the outcomes of their policies. Finally, the Proposed Rule removes any reference to policies or practices that perpetuate segregated housing patterns. This attempt to remove segregated housing patterns as an element of disparate impact would perpetuate discriminatory behavior and runs counter to the majority's opinion in Inclusive Communities, which concludes with a statement that [the] Court acknowledges the Fair Housing Act's continuing role in moving the Nation toward a more integrated society.[4] In their opinion, the majority of the Supreme Court further acknowledged that [m]uch progress remains to be made in our Nation's continuing struggle against racial isolation.[5] Housing is the foundation of opportunity for individuals, families, neighborhoods, and society. Preventing housing discrimination  including subtle, hidden discrimination  is central to the mission Congress charged HUD to carry out. We urge you to uphold this mission, reject the changes in the Proposed Rule, and preserve the existing rule. ###           [1] 78 Fed. Reg. 11460.      [2] 2019 Fair Housing Trends Report, National Fair Housing Alliance, November 1, 2019, available at https://nationalfairhousing.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/2019-Trends-Report.pdf.       [3]QUARTERLY RESIDENTIAL VACANCIES AND HOMEOWNERSHIP, U.S. Census, July 25, 2019, available at: https://www.census.gov/housing/hvs/files/currenthvspress.pdf.      [4] Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs v. Inclusive Communities Project, Inc., 135 S. Ct. 2507, 2525-26 (2015).      [5] Id. at 2525.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/maine-delegation-calls-on-feds-to-answer-for-shortcomings-in-data-correct-inaccuracies-before-releasing-new-rules-on-lobstermen,"Maine Delegation Calls on Feds to Answer for Shortcomings in Data, Correct Inaccuracies before Releasing New Rules on Lobstermen",2019-12-04,2019,2019-12,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON  Senators Susan Collins (R-ME) and Angus King (I-ME), Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (ME-01), and Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02) pressed the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) over the accuracy of the data and assumptions the agency is using to craft new regulations on Maine's lobstermen. The delegation is requesting additional information from NOAA about how the findings of a recently completed peer-review process will be incorporated into its draft rules on the lobster fishery. Additionally, the Members of Congress are calling on the agency to better account for the role of Canadian fisheries and ship strikes, as well as other U.S. fisheries, in the agency's estimates of risk to the North Atlantic right whale. Given the significant and potentially life-threatening modifications that Maine lobstermen are being pressed to implement in order to meet a risk reduction target set by the [Take Reduction Team], NOAA Fisheries must ensure that accurate data and the best available scientific evidence alone serve as the basis for determining the level of risk posed by Maine's lobster fishery and all other fisheries interacting with the species, wrote the Maine delegation. It is our hope that the agency will continue its work to improve the quality of the information as well as the manner in which it is interpreted and not proceed with regulations that are based on uncertain estimations, particularly given the number of lives and livelihoods that are at stake. Following pressure from the delegation, NOAA completed a peer-review process for the data tool it uses to create the regulations, which are intended to protect the North Atlantic Right Whale. The Members of Congress are asking NOAA how it plans to incorporate the results of the peer review into the draft regulations ahead of their expected release in early 2020, noting that the agency is on a tight timeline. Collins, King, Pingree, and Golden also expressed concern and frustration over NOAA's repeated failure to acknowledge the outsized risk Canadian fisheries pose to right whales. While Maine's lobster fishery has made modifications that have reduced documented whale entanglements by 90 percent in the last decade, Canada has not taken comparable steps. In fact, Canada has rolled back several of its whale protection efforts in 2019. Continuing to downplay the role of Canadian fisheries in future right whale management plans ignores the reality that the species is not bound by national borders, continued the Members of Congress. Lobster fishery management efforts cannot be successful unless the impacts from Canadian fisheries and shipping on right whale injury and mortality are adequately accounted for. We continue to be dismayed by NOAA Fisheries' assumption that the United States and Canada pose equal risk to the North Atlantic right whale, despite the clear outsized role of Canada in right whale deaths in recent years. The Maine delegation also took issue with inaccurate information recently published by NOAA on its website. The delegation argued that the agency's Right Whales and the Lobster Fishery webpage perpetuates the false narrative that the Maine lobster fishery is the primary cause of right whale serious injury and mortality, despite clear evidence to the contrary. Maine's Department of Marine Resources and Maine lobster fishery stakeholders have previously pointed out factual inaccuracies with much of the webpage's source material, but NOAA has yet to remove or correct the misleading information. The regulations being developed by NOAA will have a profound effect on Maine's lobster industry. As such, the federal government owes it to Maine lobstermen and their communities to  at the very least  use the best available evidence and accurate data to create these regulations. The MLA strongly agrees with our delegation: NOAA should quickly incorporate the findings of its peer-review into its data tool, account for the risk from Canadian fisheries, and they should remove misleading and inaccurate information from their website. We thank Senators Collins and King and Representatives Pingree and Golden for their work on behalf of Maine lobstering communities. - Patrice McCarron, Executive Director, Maine Lobstermen's Association. Collins, King, Pingree, and Golden have consistently stood up for Maine lobstermen, demanding that government agencies ground their regulations in sound science and data. In July, the group wrote to the president to urge him to intervene in NOAA's rulemaking. Golden and Pingree introduced an amendment in June that would have temporarily blocked NOAA's efforts pending a peer-review. The delegation also raised concerns over the process and data NOAA has used to develop its proposed rules in a May letter to NOAA officials. Read a copy of the letter here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/with-maine-wild-blueberry-industry-losing-nearly-97-of-chinese-exports-in-trade-war-king-urges-administration-to-fairly-compensate-growers,"With Maine Wild Blueberry Industry Losing Nearly 97% of Chinese Exports in Trade War, King Urges Administration To Fairly Compensate Growers",2019-12-04,2019,2019-12,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) sent a letter to U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) Robert Lighthizer and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Sonny Perdue urging them to help wild blueberry producers whose livelihood has been put at risk by the ongoing Chinese trade war. In the letter, Senator King notes the value of Maine's wild blueberry exports to China are on pace to drop by nearly 97% since 2017. Despite this massive market loss, Maine's wild blueberries have been excluded from the President's multi-billion dollar farm bailout. In today's letter, King urges the USTR and USDA Secretary to treat Maine's wild blueberry growers fairly and offer them the same support that is being extended to other agricultural producers. Senator King will expand on the concerns addressed in this letter during a speech later today (~4:25 p.m.) on the Senate floor, calling national attention to this matter and emphasizing its meaning to the state and economy of Maine. The wild blueberry, an iconic Maine agricultural product, has lost a piece of its future, wrote Senator King in part. Squarely to blame are the President's disastrous Chinese trade war and his farm bailout, which has favored some agricultural exports while leaving others  like wild blueberries  without support to find new markets. I ask that you include wild blueberries in the Market Facilitation Program (MFP) immediately to compensate producers for the trade war losses that they have sustained Today, China assesses an 80 percent retaliatory tariff on frozen wild blueberry imports from the United States. As of September, Maine blueberry farmers have sent only $61,000 of their crop to China this year. If the trend continues through this month, the President's trade war will lead to a 96.75 percent decrease in the value of my state's wild blueberry exports to China since 2017. Maine's wild blueberry export crop is not the only agricultural product that the Administration's Chinese trade policies have harmed. Wheat, soybean, and cranberry farmers also have seen dramatic declines in their Chinese sales. Unlike wild blueberry producers, however, those who grow these agricultural products have enjoyed the benefits of an unprecedented farm bailout, which has ballooned to almost triple the size of the 2009 automobile bailout You can and should improve the business climate for the Maine people who grow wild blueberries. Especially given the President's recent announcement that the Chinese trade war may extend beyond the 2020 election, I urge you to include wild blueberries in the MFP program today; to resolve the trade war with China quickly; and to fairly, transparently, and rationally administer agricultural assistance programs meant to compensate producers for the trade war losses that this Administration has caused. Today's letter and speech mark Senator King's latest efforts to advocate for Maine industries affected by harmful trade negotiations. In July, Senator King joined the Maine Delegation to send a letter urging the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to include the wild blueberry industry in the USDA's Market Facilitation Program. Earlier that month, the Delegation sent a letterurging the U.S. Department of Agriculture to include significant funding for Maine's lobster industryas the Department finalizes their aid package for agricultural producers affected by China's retaliatory tariffs. The letter follows up on the Delegation'sinitial request in Juneto provide relief for Maine's lobster industry amidst the ongoing trade war with China.In February, the Maine Delegation wrote two letters urging the Administration to prioritizelobstersandpotatoesin the ongoing trade negotiations with China. The Senator's full letter can be found HERE or read below. +++ Dear Ambassador Lighthizer and Secretary Perdue: The wild blueberry, an iconic Maine agricultural product, has lost a piece of its future. Squarely to blame are the President's disastrous Chinese trade war and his farm bailout, which has favored some agricultural exports while leaving others  like wild blueberries  without support to find new markets. I ask that you include wild blueberries in the Market Facilitation Program (MFP) immediately to compensate producers for the trade war losses that they have sustained. Maine people have exported wild blueberries from our state since before the Civil War. In recent years, the wild blueberry business has not been a lucrative one, but it is a proud family tradition in Maine  and one that has weathered turbulent market conditions for generations. During the past decade, an influx of Canadian wild blueberries and the incursion of cultivated blueberries into the freezer aisle diminished the market share on which Maine's growers depend. Undaunted, the Maine people who grow wild blueberries turned to the east to find new markets for their crop. In addition to promoting wild blueberries in South Korea, Japan, and Southeast Asia, they developed China's nearly 1.4 billion-person market. In recent years, the Maine Wild Blueberry Commission spent more than half of its export budget on cultivating Chinese consumers. The Commission's investment in China yielded promising results. Between 2014 and 2017, Maine wild blueberry exports to China quadrupled, reaching $2.5 million in 2017. All signs indicated that the Chinese export market would continue to expand rapidly. Then, in 2018, the Trump Administration caused Maine wild blueberry producers to all but forfeit the investment of time and treasure that they had made in growing their Chinese business. Today, China assesses an 80 percent retaliatory tariff on frozen wild blueberry imports from the United States. As of September, Maine blueberry farmers have sent only $61,000 of their crop to China this year. If the trend continues through this month, the President's trade war will lead to a 96.75 percent decrease in the value of my state's wild blueberry exports to China since 2017. Maine's wild blueberry export crop is not the only agricultural product that the Administration's Chinese trade policies have harmed. Wheat, soybean, and cranberry farmers also have seen dramatic declines in their Chinese sales. Unlike wild blueberry producers, however, those who grow these agricultural products have enjoyed the benefits of an unprecedented farm bailout, which has ballooned to almost triple the size of the 2009 automobile bailout. The most recent farm bailout round has seen several farms receive $1 million in direct payments from the Department of Agriculture, and at least 45 farms have received payments of $500,000. Meanwhile, wild blueberry growers have received no additional federal trade mitigation assistance to compensate them for the substantial losses that President Trump's trade war with China has caused them. The Administration knows that Maine wild blueberry producers are suffering. On July 15, I wrote with the Maine Congressional Delegation to Under Secretary Northey. In our letter, we said that wild blueberry growers have faced tremendous strain due to ongoing trade retaliation and requested that the USDA take every appropriate action, in accordance with all applicable laws and regulations, to include wild blueberries within the Market Facilitation Program. Knowing that the trade war had eviscerated wild blueberry exports to China, the Administration failed to provide a cent of funding to help these hardworking Mainers open new export markets. Instead, the USDA suggested that the wild blueberry growers seek assistance through continued involvement in the Food Purchase and Distribution Program, which purchases excess supply to distribute for school lunch programs and other nutrition assistance programs. Additionally, the USDA stated that frozen wild blueberries had already frequently benefited through Section 32 Program Bonus Buy program. However, as the USDA is distinctly aware, neither of these programs directly finance the growers themselves. The USDA's reason for denying Market Facilitation Program (MFP) funding for wild blueberries is plainly spurious. Cranberries also are eligible for USDA school lunch and food bank purchases. Yet, a cranberry grower with a 100-acre cranberry bog is eligible for up to $64,113 in MFP payments while a Maine wild blueberry grower with a 100-acre barren is not eligible to receive a single penny in MFP assistance. I know Maine wild blueberry producers. Like their hearty plants, wild blueberry growers are tenacious, and they love the land that their families have tended for generations. They will prevail over the harsh trade environment that the Administration has created, but only after suffering enormous  and unnecessary  hardship. You can and should improve the business climate for the Maine people who grow wild blueberries. Especially given the President's recent announcement that the Chinese trade war may extend beyond the 2020 election, I urge you to include wild blueberries in the MFP program today; to resolve the trade war with China quickly; and to fairly, transparently, and rationally administer agricultural assistance programs meant to compensate producers for the trade war losses that this Administration has caused.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-criticizes-military-housing-contractors-not-providing-safe-units-for-all-servicemembers-and-families,King Criticizes Military Housing Contractors Not Providing Safe Units for Servicemembers and Families,2019-12-03,2019,2019-12,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) pressed top military officials to explain and resolve severe shortcomings by contractors that create unsafe living conditions for some American servicemembers and their families. At bases nationwide, military spouses and servicemembers have reported harmful, dangerous living conditions in privatized, on-base housing including mold contamination, dangerous temperatures, and pest infestations. Senator King's remarks came during a hearing of the Senate Armed Services Committee that featured top military leaders. During the hearing, he underscored the importance of proper enforcement of housing contracts and greater accountability within the military chain of command. Senator King had previously emphasized these challenges at a March hearing, urging the military to designate a position to be fully responsible for the enforcement of these housing contracts. I can't believe the basic requirement of that contract wasn't safe and healthy, habitable units, said Senator King. I don't think [contractors] should be paid even the basic rent if they're not renting safe and habitable units  forget about incentives My experience in this kind of work is that implementation is as important as vision. And my sense is there are differences in the contracts, but there are basic provisions that they have to be safe and healthy, they have to meet codes, and that, I believe, not having seen the contracts myself, but I believe that this is really mostly an implementation problem. And then my question is: who's in charge? Is it the base commander? Is it a base housing officer? Is it the Secretary of the Navy? Is it the Secretary of Defense? There's got to be somebody who can be held accountable here in what looks like endemic non-enforcement. Witnesses before the Senate Armed Services Committee today include Elizabeth Field, Director, Defense Capabilities And Management, Government Accountability Office; Ryan McCarthy, Secretary Of The Army; Thomas Modly, Acting Secretary Of The Navy; Barbara Barrett, Secretary Of The Air Force; General James McConville, Chief Of Staff Of The Army; Admiral Michael Gilday, Chief Of Naval Operations; General David Berger, Commandant Of The Marine Corps; General David Goldfein, Chief Of Staff Of The Air Force.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/in-november-podcast-senator-king-discusses-urgency-of-cybersecurity-with-best-selling-author-david-sanger,"In November Podcast, Senator King Discusses Urgency of Cybersecurity with Best-Selling Author David Sanger",2019-12-02,2019,2019-12,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.Today, the Office of U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) released the November edition of Senator King's Inside Maine podcast, focusing on the threats that cyberattacks pose to America's national security. In this episode, Senator King welcomed David Sanger, an award winning journalist and best-selling author, to discuss the rise of cyberthreats as both an important military consideration and a serious security concern. Senator King is a leading voice on cybersecurity issues in the Senate and co-chairs the Cyberspace Solarium Commission, a bipartisan effort that brings together Congressional, executive, and civilian leaders to build consensus on a strategic approach to defending the United States in cyberspace. The rise of the internet has drastically changed nearly every aspect of society, including the way we fight wars, said Senator King. As one of the most connected nations in the world, America is asymmetrically vulnerable to cyberattacks. We need to respond accordingly, by enhancing our cybercapabilities and establishing a set of policies that deter bad actors from launching attacks. David Sanger is one of the most thoughtful voices on the set of challenges posed by cyber, and it was a pleasure to talk to him about what we're up against and how best to defend ourselves.   David E. Sanger is a national security correspondent and a senior writer at the New York Times. His newest book, The Perfect Weapon: War, Sabotage and Fear in the Cyber Age, examines the emergence of cyberconflict as the primary way large and small states are competing and undercutting each other, changing the nature of global power. Mr. Sanger is also the author oftwo Times bestsellers on foreign policy and national security: The Inheritance:The World Obama Confronts and the Challenges toAmerican Power,published in 2009, and Confront and Conceal: Obama's Secret Wars and Surprising Use of American Power, published in 2012. During his time in the Senate, Senator King has been a strong advocate for functional and effective cyberpolicy, and deterring cyberattacks on American elections and everyday life. Senator King and U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho) introduced theSecuring Energy Infrastructure Act, which waspassed by the House of Representatives in Julyas part of their version of the NDAA. The legislation alsopassed the Senatein the upper chamber's version of the NDAA, and is expected to be included in the final bill once it passes through the House/Senate conference process. In late May, Senator King alsocosponsoredtheElection Security Act, which would require voter-verifiable backup paper ballots and provide election security grants to states for cyber improvements and audits. Earlier that month, he highlighted thefactors that could lead to election cybersecurity issues to members of the U.S. Election Assistance Commission (EAC), the commission who provide best practices when certifying voting machines. In March, Senator King sent aletterto the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) requesting information about NERC's efforts to protect the United States' bulk power system from supply chain vulnerabilities, particularly those posed by vendors from Russia and China. In a February hearing, Senator King emphasizedthe need for urgent action, and questioned NERC President and CEO James Robb about the dangers of foreign equipment in America's energy grid. To listen to the November edition of Senator King's podcast click HERE.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-announce-over-21-million-to-support-rural-telemedicine-and-education,"Senators Collins, King Announce Over $2.1 Million to Support Rural Telemedicine and Education",2019-11-25,2019,2019-11,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Angus King (I-Maine) announced that the United States Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Distance Learning and Telemedicine Program has awarded a total of $2,181,629 to several rural healthcare organizations and educational institutions throughout Maine. The funds will help six Maine organizations expand their online services, allowing them to reach more Maine people. In the 21st century, the internet creates new opportunities for Maine people to access vital health treatments or pursue their education, no matter where they live, said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. These funds will expand the reach of key programs that improve health outcomes and open doors for rural Maine people, providing a welcome boost for communities across our state. The funding is awarded as follows: Androscoggin Home has received $215,900 to purchase 250 new telemonitoring devices which will benefit 180 communities across nine counties. MaineHealth has received $473,739 to create a telemedicine network to treat opioid disorders experienced by women and infants in rural Maine. Children's Center has received $300,818 to go towards funding a new telemedicine project that will use tablets to create a technology library. The library will be available to families within a 120-mile radius of the Children's Center Augusta or at the two designated end-user sites at the Children's Center Farmington and Children's Center Skowhegan. The project will serve 202,572 individuals.Northern Light Health has received $191,496 to implement a telemedicine project in six hospitals. The project will serve 54,333 residents.Western Foothills Reg. School Unit #10 has received $499,676 to enable RSU 10 to implement a distance learning project to receive and distribute advanced classes. All schools will be linked to opioid and behavioral health support. An estimated 25,703 individuals will benefit.University of Maine System has received $500,000 to upgrade distance learning technology. The University will provide teaching services to students in rural Maine. Over 29,000 students will be served. The USDA Distance Learning and Telemedicine Program provides grants to encourage and improve telemedicine and distance learning services in rural areas through the use of telecommunications, computer networks, and related advanced technologies to be used by students, teachers, medical professionals, and rural residents.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/during-healthcare-enrollment-period-king-seeking-improved-consumer-protections-surrounding-junk-plans,"During Healthcare Enrollment Period, King Seeking Improved Consumer Protections Surrounding “Junk Plans”",2019-11-22,2019,2019-11,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) joined a group of 23 Senators in sending a letter to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) and the Inspector General for the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), requesting they address their apparent efforts to promote junk plans, insurance plans that lack protections for people with pre-existing conditions and would increase costs for millions of Americans. In their letter, the Senators draw attention to the fact that the HealthCare.gov website is now directing consumers during the ongoing Affordable Care Act (ACA) Open Enrollment period to junk plans through third-party brokers, with little to no information about the lack of coverage provided by these so-called short-term plans. We are extremely concerned that the increased availability of junk plans and lack of oversight by CMS will cause consumers who believe they are purchasing ACA-compliant health plans to inadvertently sign-up for junk plan coverage that is less comprehensive and could expose them to higher out-of-pocket costs, wrote the Senators. Americans who purchase these junk plans risk being denied coverage for pre-existing conditions and left vulnerable to unexpected gaps in coverage and massive medical bills in the case of health care emergencies. Short-term, limited-duration insurance plans were never intended to be an alternative to comprehensive health coverage and pose dangerous risks for consumers. In 2018, the Trump Administration expanded the maximum coverage duration for junk plans from 90 days to 364 days, allowing for these plans to be easily confused with year-round comprehensive coverage that meets the ACA's standards. The Trump Administration has also encouraged states to apply for waivers from the ACA that would allow for the ACA's premium tax credits to be used to subsidize junk plan coverage. Senator King is a vocal proponent of efforts to protect and improve the Affordable Care Act, which has helped millions of Americans access healthcare, including cosponsoring and voting for legislation seeking to overturn the Administration's rule allowing for the expansion of junk plans. On November 1st, the beginning of the ACA's Open Enrollment period, Senator King joined Maine healthcare providers and advocates at the Greater Portland Health Clinic to urge Maine people to sign up for healthcare. In May, heannounced his supportfor a Senate resolution rejecting the Department of Justice's (DOJ)decisionto uphold a Texas Federal Judge'srulingthat deems the Affordable Care Act unconstitutional. In July 2018, Senator King joined a group of his colleagues to introduce a resolution that would haveauthorized the Senate Legal Counsel to interveneinTexas v. United States, and in December 2018 he joined a group of Senate colleagues to call on President Trump tocondemnthe resulting decision in the case. He has also fought the Administration'svarious attempts to sabotage the health care lawand met with Maine people around the state todiscuss the ACA's importance to their lives. The full letter the letter can read below or downloaded HERE. +++ The Honorable Randy Pate   Deputy Administrator and Director    Center for Consumer Information and Insurance Oversight Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services U.S. Department of Health & Human Services   200 Independence Ave SW   Washington, DC 20201 The Honorable Joanne Chiedi Acting Inspector General U.S. Department of Health and Human Services 330 Independence Ave SW Washington, DC 20201   Dear Director Pate and Acting Inspector General Chiedi:   As the Open Enrollment period for health insurance coverage for 2020 continues, we write to express concern regarding the increased promotion of short-term, limited-duration insurance plans, also known as junk plans, to consumers seeking coverage on the federal Health Insurance Marketplaces. We are concerned that the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) is not only failing to conduct sufficient oversight to protect customers, but is actively emailing consumers to encourage them to obtain coverage through third-party agents and brokers instead of the HealthCare.gov website. These brokers often have significant incentives to enroll consumers in junk plans instead of comprehensive coverage that meets the Affordable Care Act's (ACA's) coverage and pre-existing condition protection standards. We are extremely concerned that the increased availability of junk plans and lack of oversight by CMS will cause consumers who believe they are purchasing ACA-compliant health plans to inadvertently sign-up for junk plan coverage that is less comprehensive and could expose them to higher out-of-pocket costs. Americans who purchase these junk plans risk being denied coverage for pre-existing conditions and left vulnerable to unexpected gaps in coverage and massive medical bills in the case of health care emergencies. Short-term, limited-duration insurance plans were never intended to be an alternative to comprehensive health coverage and pose dangerous risks for consumers. In 2018, the Trump Administration expanded the maximum coverage duration for junk plans from 90 days to 364 days, allowing for these plans to be easily confused with year-round comprehensive coverage that meets the ACA's standards. The Trump Administration has also encouraged states to apply for waivers from the ACA that would allow for the ACA's premium tax credits to be used to subsidize junk plan coverage. Insurance brokers are now aggressively marketing junk plans to consumersincluding consumers who come to the HealthCare.gov portal seeking comprehensive coverage and then click on links that re-direct them to web brokers and phone-based broker services. Commissions that these brokers receive for enrolling a customer in a junk plan are often up to four times as high as the commissions that brokers would receive for enrolling the individual in an ACA-compliant plan. This creates inherent incentives for brokers to push customers to purchase a junk plan, even when tax credits may be available to help defray the cost of an ACA-compliant Marketplace plan. According to data from CMS, nearly 90 percent of Americans shopping for coverage on HealthCare.gov qualify for these tax credits.[1] These online broker sites also fail to sufficiently connect Medicaid-eligible consumers to their state Medicaid agency and can even continue to press a consumer to purchase junk plan coverage after informing the consumer of Medicaid eligibility. Consumers should be able to trust that when using a government-operated platform such as HealthCare.gov, they will not be subject to aggressive or misleading marketing techniques by third-parties that are incentivized to steer individuals to a substandard product. Not only has CMS failed to make consumers aware of the commission payment incentives that exist for brokers to enroll customers in junk plans, but it is also uncertain whether the agency has procedures in place to track what happens to customers who are re-directed to third-party broker sites. It is also unclear what statutory authority CMS relies upon to authorize the re-direction of HealthCare.gov customers toward third-party broker entities that sell ACA-compliant coverage and junk plan coverage on the same platforms. Section 1311(d)(2)(B)(i) of the ACA prohibits an Exchange from taking action to make available any health plan that is not a qualified health plan and does not meet the ACA's coverage standards. By allowing HealthCare.gov customers to be re-directed to third-party brokers that can sell the customer a junk plan during the same interaction, the federal Exchange would appear to be making available health plans that are not qualified health plans under the ACA. By using either CMS program management funds or federal Health Insurance Marketplace user fees to support HealthCare.gov functionality that steers customers to brokers that can sell junk plans, CMS could also be violating the federal rules that govern the use of program management funds and user fee dollars.[2] Furthermore, on November 6th and again on November 13th, HealthCare.gov sent an e-mail (see Exhibit 1) to consumers encouraging them to circumvent HealthCare.gov completely and directing them to HelpOnDemand.com, a third-party operated site for connecting agents and brokers with potential customers. We have serious concerns regarding the lack of oversight that CMS has over third-party agents and brokers and the usage of government resources to promote third-party platforms that may encourage junk plan enrollment from HealthCare.gov customers. We ask that you please provide us with a written response to the following questions by no later than December 4, 2019: 1. Please explain the statutory authority that CMS relies upon to direct HealthCare.gov customers to third-party insurance brokers who sell both ACA-compliant qualified health plans and junk plans on the same platform.  2. Please detail the resources that CMS has expended to direct HealthCare.gov customers to third-party insurance brokers who sell both ACA-compliant qualified health plans and junk plans on the same platform, and detail the authority that allows CMS to expend resources in that way.  3. Please provide an accounting of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and CMS budget for advertising or promoting Open Enrollment.  4. Please provide the total number of consumers who received the November 6, 2019 and November 13, 2019 e-mails sent by HHS promoting the use of HealthOnDemand.com (see Exhibit 1). Please provide an estimate of the number of recipients who accessed HelpOnDemand.com through the November 6th and November 13th e-mails.  5. Please detail the policies and procedures implemented by CMS to ensure that agents and brokers comply with the guidelines established in the CMS-approved vendor training that they are required to complete in order to sell insurance through HealthCare.gov. How does CMS ensure that agents or brokers using third-party sites such as HelpOnDemand.com remain in compliance with the HealthCare.gov vendor training? 6. Please describe what controls CMS has implemented toensure that consumers who qualify for cost-sharing subsidies or are eligible for enrollment in Medicaid or Medicare are properly informed of their eligibility if they are directed away from HealthCare.gov and attempt to enroll in coverage through third-party sites such as HelpOnDemand.com. We are calling on HHS and CMS to take action to limit the availability of junk plans and take steps to ensure that consumers using HealthCare.gov are being offered comprehensive health insurance, receiving premium tax credits, and being enrolled in Medicaid, if eligible. Furthermore, CMS should take action to hold insurance brokers accountable when they mislead HealthCare.gov customers and misrepresent junk plans as safe alternatives to ACA-complaint health insurance coverage. During this year's Open Enrollment period, it is essential that you act fast in order to protect consumers.        [1] Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, Plan Year 2020 Qualified Health Plan Choice and Premiums in HealthCare.gov States, October 22, 2019      [2] See Affordable Care Act section 1311(b); See also Anti-Deficiency Act (Pub. L. 97-258) and OMB User Fee Circular (Circular No. A-25 Revised).",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-over-29-million-to-community-health-centers-throughout-rural-maine,"Collins, King Announce Over $2.9 Million to Community Health Centers Throughout Rural Maine",2019-11-21,2019,2019-11,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.  On National Rural Health Day, U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Angus King (I-Maine) announced that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has awarded a total of $2,974,548 in funding to two community health center networks, which will be used to bolster multiple locations in central, western, and northern Maine. Senators Collins and King are avid supporters of community health centers (CHCs)  just last month, they joined a bipartisan group of 25 Senators in a push to secure long-term federal funding for CHCs, which is set to expire today. Community health centers are the backbone of Maine's rural healthcare system, providing cost-effective primary and preventive care that is crucial to the wellbeing of more than 200,000 Maine people, said Senator Collins and King in a joint statement. We welcome this grant, and will continue working with our colleagues on both sides of the aisle to push for long-term federal funding that ensures CHCs can continue to provide vital healthcare services to Maine people. Both Senators Collins and King are original cosponsors of the Community Health Investment, Modernization, and Excellence (CHIME) Act, which would reauthorize the Community Health Center Fund (CHCF) and the National Health Service Corps for five years. Senator Collins has also been a strong advocate for the Lower Health Care Costs Act of 2019, which would reauthorize programs that support access to health care in rural areas, including the Community Health Centers program. CHCs serve approximately 29 million patients at over 10,000 sites in both rural and urban communities in every state in the nation. In 2017, community health centers were the medical home for one in twelve Americans, one in ten children, one in six Americans living in rural areas, and more than 330,000 of our nation's veterans. This funding was awarded through the Health Resources and Services Administration's (HRSA) Health Center Cluster Program at HHS, which is tasked with improving access to health care by building healthy communities, strengthening the health care workforce, and achieving health equity. HRSA's programs target the economic and medically vulnerable as well as the geographically isolated. Specifically, Health Access Network (HAN), headquartered in Lincoln, has received $1,283,092, and Healthreach Community Health Centers, headquartered in Waterville, has received $1,691,456. HAN operates locations in Lincoln, Lee, Medway, Millinocket, and West Enfield. Healthreach Community Health Centers operates locations in Belgrade, Bethel, Bingham, Albion, Madison, Mt. Abram, Rangeley, Richmond, Strong, Sheepscot, and Livermore Falls.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-cosponsors-bill-to-expand-telehealth-services-in-rural-maine,King Cosponsors Bill to Expand Telehealth Services in Rural Maine,2019-11-21,2019,2019-11,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) announced that he is cosponsoring the Creating Opportunities Now for Necessary and Effective Care Technologies (CONNECT) for Health Act, a bipartisan bill that would expand telehealth services through Medicare, improve health outcomes, make it easier for patients to connect with their doctors, and help cut costs for patients and providers. As one of the oldest and most rural states in the nation, Maine faces unique challenges when it comes to connecting our citizens with vital healthcare services, said Senator King. Telehealth can mitigate some of these challenges, bridging the distance between older Maine people and their healthcare providers without forcing them to drive long distances. This technology has the potential to transform healthcare in our state, and it is vitally important for Congress to keep pace with the advances in telehealth so we can improve the health of Maine people. According to studies, telehealth has been shown to improve care and patient satisfaction while reducing hospitalizations. The CONNECT for Health Act builds on the progress made in recent years to increase the use of telehealth through Medicare, and: Provides the Secretary of Health and Human Services with the authority to waive telehealth restrictions when necessary;Removes geographic and originating site restrictions for services like mental health and emergency medical care;Allows rural health clinics and other community-based health care centers to provide telehealth services; andRequires a study to explore more ways to expand telehealth services so that more people can access healthcare services in their own homes. During his time in the Senate, Senator King has been a strong advocate for healthcare in rural areas that is accessible and affordable. In October, he held a panel discussion in Bangor with local healthcare providers and public wellness experts on the best ways to use prevention strategies to improve health outcomes and reduce costs. In late July, he joined a bipartisan group of senators to urge the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to delay their proposed Rural Health Care (RHC) Program report and order to better address the concerns of rural healthcare providers and medical communities. In theJune edition of his Inside Maine podcast, Senator King welcomed both U.S. Senator Tina Smith (D-Minn.) and Kris Doody, CEO of Cary Medical Center to discuss rural healthcare policy and ways to improve access to care across the country. Last year, Senator King and Senator Susan Collins (R-Maine)applaudeda draft proposal from Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Ajit Pai that significantly increased funding for the Universal Service Fund's Rural Health Care (RHC) Program. This increase in the RHC funding cap followed bipartisan letters Senator King led calling for the RHC program to bemodernizedandstrengthened. Also in the 115th Congress, Senator King cosponsored legislation such as theRural Emergency Acute Care Hospital Act, thePreserve Access to Medicare Rural Home Health Service Act, and theRural Hospital Access Act, all of which work to better healthcare services in Maine and the United States. Digital connectivity in rural regions is a key priority ofSenator King's economic agenda and rural broadband roadmap, to help modernize and grow Maine's rural economy, support innovation, and create jobs. In July, he cosponsored theBroadband Deployment Accuracy and Technological Availability (DATA) Act, which will increase the accuracy of the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) broadband availability maps by improving the process by which broadband data is collected. In May, Senators King and Capito reintroduced legislation tomeasure the economic impact of broadbandso state and federal policymakers can understand the return they will receive on any investments in digital infrastructure. The legislation had previouslypassed the Senate in December, but was not taken up by the House.In April, Senator King joined his colleagues to introducelegislation to promote digital equityso Americans of all background can have equal access to the opportunities created by the internet. In addition to Senator King, the bipartisan bill is supported by U.S. Senators Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Ben Cardin (D-Md.), John Thune (R-S.D.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Jon Tester (D-Mont.), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I), Martha McSally (R-Ariz.), Doug Jones (D-Ala.), and Roy Blunt (R-Mo.).",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-seeking-further-bipartisan-progress-on-criminal-justice-reform,King Seeking Further Bipartisan Progress on Criminal Justice Reform,2019-11-20,2019,2019-11,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) joined Senators Mike Lee (R-Utah), and Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) to support the Smarting Sentencing Act, bipartisan legislation aiming to modernize federal drug sentencing policies by reducing mandatory minimum penalties for certain nonviolent drug offenses. Under our current criminal justice system, nonviolent offenders spend decades in prison, drawing much-needed law enforcement and taxpayer dollars from other priorities. Enacting last year's FIRST Step Act into law was a good start but there's still work to be done, said Senator King. Instead of using a one-size-fits-all' approach to sentencing, let's advance this bipartisan work to apply our criminal justice resources wisely and make sure that punishments that fit the crime. Senator King cosponsored the initial version of the Smarter Sentencing Act in the previous Congress, which included several important provisions enacted into law last year as part of the landmark First Step Act, which Senator King also cosponsored. Today's legislation would enact the central remaining provision of the original 2018 bill: reducing mandatory minimum penalties for certain nonviolent drug offenses. The Congressional Budget Office has estimated that implementation of this provision would save taxpayers approximately $3 billion over ten years. Senator King has also previously cosponsored the Second Chance Act Reauthorization Act, which funds programs to assist with successful prisoner reentry into society.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-bill-to-reduce-energy-costs-boost-maine-economy-passes-key-senate-committee,"King Bill to Reduce Energy Costs, Boost Maine Economy Passes Key Senate Committee",2019-11-19,2019,2019-11,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, the Combined Heat and Power (CHP) Support Act, bipartisan legislation introduced by U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), passed the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee where he serves. The bill would support businesses seeking to invest in energy efficiency technology, diversify energy options for rural industries, and maximize the value of Maine's natural resources. U.S. Senator Susan Collins (R-Maine) is an original cosponsor of this legislation, which will now advance to the Senate floor for consideration. This bill highlights Maine ingenuity and innovation by developing the best ways to make use of our natural resources to bolster rural economies, encourage energy efficiency, and reduce energy costs,said Senator King, a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee.The CHP Support Act designates Combined Heat and Power Technical Assistance Partnerships , like the Northeast regional TAP at the University of Maine, to help businesses invest in CHP and provide new low-cost energy sources to Maine consumers.Developing cleaner power in a way that supports rural economies should not be a partisan issue  today's committee vote is a win for Maine's economy, and I look forward to its consideration on the Senate floor. Combined heat and power systems are cost-effective and environmentally friendly sources of energy that have proven to help businesses cut electricity and heating bills, said Senator Collins. Our bill to reauthorize the Combined Heat and Power Technical Assistance Partnership Program would provide businesses with the information they need to install these highly efficient systems. The Combined Heat and Power Alliance applauds the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee for passing bipartisan legislation to reauthorize the Department of Energy Combined Heat and Power Technical Assistance Partnerships. said David Gardiner, Executive Director of the Combined Heat and Power Alliance. This legislation will advance combined heat and power, which will reduce energy use, increase economic competitiveness, enhance resilience, and reduce emissions for the nation's hospitals, universities, and manufacturing sites. We thank Senator King for his leadership and continuing support for this important and timely legislation. The CHP Support Act reauthorizes and funds the CHP Technical Assistance Partnerships (TAP) program for the next five years  a program that has helped multiple Maine businesses install energy-efficient CHP equipment and save on energy costs. The CHP TAP program enables higher education research centers to provide assistance and analysis for any business looking to invest in CHP technology and has supported a wide range of businesses throughout the country. In addition to the Combined Heat and Power Alliance, other organizations that have expressed support for this legislation include the Alliance to Save Energy (ASE), the American Chemistry Council (ACC), and the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE). Senator King originallyintroduced the CHP Act in 2017, after he hosted aSenate Energy and Natural Resources Committee field hearing at Robbins Lumber in Searsmont. The field hearing included witnesses from the Maine forest products and energy industries as well as the Director of the Advanced Manufacturing Office in the Department of Energy (DOE). During the hearing, Senator King's committee colleagues identified opportunities to use new energy-efficient technologies to sustain and strengthen rural industries. Following the event, the University of Maine was designated as a regional CHP TAP institution by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) in November 2017. Senators King and Collins are strong supporters of revitalizing Maine's forest economy. In September 2018, Senators Kingand Collins applauded an action plan released by the Forest Opportunity Roadmap (FOR/Maine) Initiative, an industry-led initiative that aims to diversify the state's wood products businesses, attract investments, and develop greater economic prosperity for rural communities impacted by mill closures. The FOR/Maine Initiative was funded in part by the Economic Development Assessment Team (EDAT)requested by the Senators in 2016in order to create strategies for job growth and economic development in Maine's rural communities. The EDAT recommended the development of markets for forest products residuals including low-value wood in CHP biomass plants, microgrids, and modern thermal systems, and helped Maine's forest industry with feasibility assessments of existing operations to install CHP technology as a strategy to lower costs through generating onsite power",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-committee-passes-kings-restore-our-parks-act-to-address-national-park-service-maintenance-backlog,Senate Committee Passes King’s “Restore Our Parks Act” to Address National Park Service Maintenance Backlog,2019-11-19,2019,2019-11,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), ranking member of the Energy and Natural Resources Subcommittee on National Parks, cast his vote along with many of his Committee colleagues on both sides of the aisle in support of the Restore Our Parks Act as it passed the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. Senator King introduced the bill earlier this year with U.S. Senators Rob Portman (R-Ohio), Mark Warner (D-Va.), and Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.); it would address the nearly $12 billion deferred maintenance backlog at the National Park Service (NPS) via revenues from natural resource development projects on federal lands. The bill has beenpraisedby key stakeholders, such as the National Park Foundation and Friends of Acadia.In addition to the Restore Our Parks Act, the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee passed legislation to permanently fund the Land and Water Conservation Fund, which was permanently reauthorized as part of the public lands package in early March. Today's committee vote represents an important, bipartisan step towards establishing lasting protections for our National Parks, and preserving these treasures for our children and grandchildren, said Senator King. From Acadia to Zion, the National Park System captures America's diverse natural beauty and is a proud reminder of our country's dedication to preserving public land for all its citizens. As President Theodore Roosevelt once said, There are no words that can tell the hidden spirit of the wilderness, that can reveal its mystery, its melancholy, and its charm.' We have a collective responsibility to maintain this spirit of the wilderness in our National Parks  and this starts with the $12 billion maintenance backlog. Stewardship of our public lands is not a partisan issue, which is why I'm pleased that the Restore Our Parks Act passed our Committee with strong bipartisan support. The two bipartisan bills advanced by the Committee today will help to ensure both current and future generations can enjoy the pristine beauty of our natural resources in Maine and across the county, said Senator Collins. By building on the accomplishment of permanently reauthorizing LWCF earlier this year, this legislation to provide guaranteed funding will preserve our country's most successful conservation and outdoor recreation program. In addition, the Restore Our Parks Act will help the National Park Service accommodate the millions of visitors to Acadia and other cherished national parks by providing much-needed funding to repair roads and trails and for other maintenance projects. I urge our colleagues to join us in this effort to protect our nation's natural treasures for the benefit of all Americans. The Restore Our Parks Act represents a significant investment in our national parks, which reflect all that we love and cherish as a nation, said Will Shafroth, President and CEO, National Park Foundation. As these places face increasedvisitationand aging infrastructure, this bill will help protect our parks'natural grandeur, expansive history, and rich cultural heritage.The National Park Foundation applauds bill champions Senator Lamar Alexander, Senator Angus King, Senator Rob Portman, and Senator Mark Warner for their unwavering support. We commend Senate Committee on Energy & Natural Resources Chairman Lisa Murkowski and Ranking Member Joe Manchin for holding today's markup and their shared commitment to addressing our parks' deferred maintenance needs. As the Foundation continues to enhance the national park visitor experience through philanthropicsupport, we look forward to the legislation's timely consideration on the Senate floor."" Deferred maintenance is a huge challenge for our national parks  and the problem grows every day we don't do something about it, said David MacDonald, President of Friends of Acadia. Acadia National Park, which hosts 3.5 million visits annually, has more than $65 million of delayed repairs to trails, roads, bridges, water systems, and buildings that are critical to the public's enjoyment of the park. The Restore Our Parks Act would allow timely investments in parks like Acadia to ensure that they remain national treasures and local economic generators now and in the future. TheRestore Our Parks Act is supported by a bipartisan group of 44 Senators and the Interior Department,and would establish the National Park Service Legacy Restoration Fund to reduce the maintenance backlog by allocating existing revenues the government receives from on and offshore energy development. This funding would come from 50 percent of all revenues that are not otherwise allocated and deposited into the General Treasury not to exceed $1.3 billion each year for the next five years. This consensus legislation has been praised by witnesses at aSubcommittee on National Parks hearing last Julyand has the support of key Administration officials, including the Interior Secretary. In addition, in September 2018Senator King joined Acting NPS Director Dan Smithon a tour of Acadia National Park to assess the park's critical maintenance need; the backlog at Acadia alone is estimated to be approximately $60 million. The Land and Water Conservation Fund Permanent Funding Act was introduced in April by Senators King, Susan Collins (R-Maine) and a bipartisan group of 12 of their Senate colleagues. As the Ranking Member of the Senate Subcommittee on National Parks, Senator King is known within Congress as a champion of efforts to preserve, protect, and promote America's national parks and public lands. In today's hearing, Senator King lauded the work of LWCF, stating LWCF, the premiere land conservation program in the country. The fact that after all these years, I think it's about 60 years, we're finally getting to the place where the funding, which by the way is from the revenues  it's not from tax revenues, it's from the revenues from mineral extraction, and therefore makes so much sense.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/with-funding-deadline-approaching-senators-king-rounds-lead-effort-to-support-seasonal-businesses,"With Funding Deadline Approaching, Senators King, Rounds Lead Effort to Support Seasonal Businesses",2019-11-19,2019,2019-11,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senators Angus King (I-Maine) and Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) led a bipartisan group of 30 colleagues in sending a letter to the Senate Majority Leader, Minority Leader, and the Chairman and Vice Chairman of the Appropriations Committee urging them to provide H-2B visa cap relief for seasonal employers in any funding agreement. In the letter, the senators stress that there are not enough U.S. workers qualified and available to meet the seasonal demand for employment  and that these seasonal positions support the jobs of thousands of American citizens. The shortage of U.S. workers during the last several years has demonstrated that without needed guest workers, seasonal businesses are simply unable to meet their staffing needs. They have been forced to limit hours of operation, turn away customers, scale back service, and cancel capital equipment purchases, wrote the senators. In some cases, businesses were forced to lay off Americans whose jobs are supported by H-2B workersor shut down their operations entirely. Seasonal businesses need meaningful and lasting cap relief so they can continue to contribute to the economy and create full-time, year-round work for Americans. According to the American Enterprise Institute, every H-2B worker is estimated to create and sustain 4.64 American jobs. In a strong economy with record-low unemployment, the H-2B program's congressionally mandated cap of 66,000 visas is inadequate to meet the labor needs of seasonal businesses. In fact, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) continues to report that the number of job openings actually exceeds the labor pool. Meaningful cap relief is needed to allow our seasonal businesses to supplement their workforce in the growing number of instances when Americans are not available to fill temporary positions. In addition to Senators King and Rounds, the letter is signed by U.S. Senators Tom Carper (D-Del.), Rob Portman (R-Ohio), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Krysten Sinema (D-Ariz.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Rand Paul (R-Ky.), Doug Jones (D-Ala.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), Todd Young (R-Ind.), Cory Gardner (R-Colo.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Pat Toomey (R-Pa.), Pat Roberts (R-Kan.), Tim Scott (R-S.C.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), John Thune (R-S.D.), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Mike Enzi (R-Wyo.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Mike Braun (R-Ind.). The full letter can be downloaded HERE, or read below. +++  The Honorable Mitch McConnell The Honorable Chuck Schumer Majority Leader Minority Leader U.S. Senate U.S. Senate Washington, DC 20510 Washington, DC 20510  The Honorable Richard Shelby The Honorable Patrick Leahy Chairman Vice Chairman Senate Appropriations Committee Senate Appropriations Committee U.S. Senate U.S. Senate Washington, DC 20510 Washington, DC 20510  Dear Majority Leader McConnell, Minority Leader Schumer, Chairman Shelby and Vice Chairman Leahy: On behalf of the seasonal employers in our states, we urge you to include H-2B cap relief in a final Fiscal 2020 Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Appropriations bill, omnibus appropriations bill or continuing resolution. Without cap relief, many employers and their domestic workforce will continue to suffer drastic economic hardship during their peak seasonal need. The shortage of U.S. workers during the last several years has demonstrated that without needed guest workers, seasonal businesses are simply unable to meet their staffing needs. They have been forced to limit hours of operation, turn away customers, scale back service, and cancel capital equipment purchases. In some cases, businesses were forced to lay off Americans whose jobs are supported by H-2B workersor shut down their operations entirely. Seasonal businesses need meaningful and lasting cap relief so they can continue to contribute to the economy and create full-time, year-round work for Americans. According to the American Enterprise Institute, every H-2B worker is estimated to create and sustain 4.64 American jobs. In a strong economy with record-low unemployment, the H-2B program's congressionally mandated cap of 66,000 visas is inadequate to meet the labor needs of seasonal businesses. In fact, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) continues to report that the number of job openings actually exceeds the labor pool. Meaningful cap relief is needed to allow our seasonal businesses to supplement their workforce in the growing number of instances when Americans are not available to fill temporary positions. For context, the FY 2019 first-half cap of 33,000 H-2B workers was met on December 11, 2018. The 33,000 second-half cap was met on February 22, 2019. During Fiscal 2019, DOL certified the need for 150,465 H-2B workers. DOL only issues final labor certifications when it concludes that:  There are not sufficient U.S. workers who are qualified and who will be available to perform the temporary services or labor for which an employer desires to hire foreign workers; andThe employment of H-2B workers will not adversely affect the wages and working conditions of similarly employed U.S. workers. On May 8, DHS, in consultation with DOL, released an additional 30,000 visas for returning workers under the discretionary authority provided to it by the Fiscal 2019 Consolidated Appropriations Act. In order to apply for these visas, employers needed to attest to the irreparable harm, or permanent and severe financial losses, that would occur without H-2B workers. While many employers were able to apply for additional H-2B workers under these supplemental visas, they still suffered harmful consequences due to the fact that these workers were needed April 1st and did not arrive well into their peak seasons. Some businesses were not able to access the total number of workers needed due to DHS' requirement that these supplemental visas be limited to returning H-2B workers. Based on current DOL processing statistics we expect the need for seasonal H-2B workers to be the same or greater than Fiscal 2019. We must ensure that businesses that play by the rules are able to access the workforce they need, while also maintaining standards for wages and working conditions. For the H-2B program to be successful, there must be robust enforcement of regulations governing the program so that only those seasonal American businesses that follow the rules have access to the program. We stand ready to work together on important permanent changes to the program going forward, and we urge you to include much-needed cap relief and a returning-worker provision in the FY 2020 DHS Appropriations bill, a continuing resolution or other spending bill. We thank you for your immediate attention to this issue.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-colleagues-push-for-senate-vote-on-violence-against-women-act-reauthorization,"King, Colleagues Push for Senate Vote on Violence Against Women Act Reauthorization",2019-11-18,2019,2019-11,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) joined 46 of his Senate colleagues to introduce a companion version of the House-passed Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act (VAWA) aiming to strengthen protections for women against domestic violence and sexual assault. The legislation, which passed the House of Representatives on a bipartisan basis six months ago, would reauthorize VAWA through 2024, provide critical funding to anti-crime priorities, preserve advancements made in previous reauthorizations, and add a number of improvements to the current law. Violence against women is a nationwide epidemic  including in Maine, where more than half of all homicides are directly related to domestic violence, said Senator King. The Violence Against Women Act is one of our nation's most important tools to fight domestic violence and sexual assault, but it has remained unauthorized for nearly a year. That is unacceptable. Standing alongside my colleagues in the Senate, and in solidarity with survivors of domestic and sexual violence, I urge the Majority Leader to bring this bill to the Senate floor for a vote and bipartisan passage. Key provisions in the bill include: Provides services, protection, and justice for young victims of violence, including extending the Rape Prevention and Education grant program, addressing bullying of young people, improving grants focused on prevention education for students and expanding relevant training for school-based and campus health centers.Preserves and expands housing protections for survivors. Protects Native American women by improving tribal access to federal crime information databases and reaffirming tribal criminal jurisdiction over non-Indian perpetrators of domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence and stalking for all federally recognized Indian tribes and Alaskan Natives.Provides economic security assistance for survivors by reauthorizing the National Resource Center on Workplace Responses. Protects employees from being fired because they are survivors of sexual assault or domestic violence and protects survivors' eligibility to receive unemployment insurance.Enhances judicial and law enforcement tools through the reauthorization of the Justice Department's STOP Violence Against Women Formula Program, known as the STOP Program. Authorizes the use of STOP Program grants to expand the use of grant funding for programs focused on increasing survivor, law enforcement and community safety; increase legal assistance for dependent children in appropriate circumstances, and develop and enforce firearm surrender policies.Explicitly states that grant recipients are allowed to train staff and others on identifying and stopping discrimination against LGBT individuals. Service providers currently remain uncertain about whether they can use grants to train for this.Reauthorizes and updates the SMART Prevention Program to reduce dating violence, help children who have been exposed to violence and engage men in preventing violence.Expands grants under the Public Health Service Act to support the implementation of training programs to improve the capacity of early childhood programs to address domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking among the families they serve.Protects the Justice Department's Office on Violence Against Women from being merged or consolidated into any other Justice Department officials.Helps prevent intimate partner homicides by including provisions expanding firearms laws to prohibit persons convicted of dating violence from possessing firearms, prohibiting persons convicted of misdemeanor stalking from possessing firearms and prohibiting individuals subject to ex parte protective orders from possessing firearms.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-announce-225000-for-lead-testing-of-drinking-water-at-maine-schools,"Senators Collins, King Announce $225,000 for Lead Testing of Drinking Water at Maine Schools",2019-11-18,2019,2019-11,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.  U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced that the Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has been awarded $225,000 for their Drinking Water Program (DWP) to continue testing the water at schools and child care facilities throughout the state. This Safe Drinking Water Act funding was provided to Maine DHHS by the Environmental Protection Agency. Lead poisoning poses a severe threat to human health, especially to children. Families should not have to be concerned about whether the water fountains at their children's schools are contaminated, said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. This funding will help ensure that students throughout Maine have access to safe drinking water while at school. Maine DHHS will use this funding to reduce lead exposure at schools and child care facilities by testing for lead, identifying potential lead sources, and talking action to mitigate the contamination.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-pingree-push-us-trade-representative-on-eu-tariff-relief-for-lobster-industry,"Collins, King, Pingree Push U.S. Trade Representative on EU Tariff Relief for Lobster Industry",2019-11-15,2019,2019-11,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Angus King (I-Maine) and Representative Chellie Pingree (D-Maine) urged U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) Robert Lighthizer to continue to prioritize a trade deal with the European Union (E.U.) that would reduce or eliminate E.U. tariffs on Maine lobster. Collins, King, and Pingree have repeatedly pressed the USTR to prioritize lobster in trade negotiations, as the U.S. industry has been adversely impacted by several international trade policies. In response to their advocacy, the USTR has identified lobster tariffs as a key priority for U.S. negotiators. In a recent letter to Amb. Lighthizer, European Trade Commissioner Cecilia Malmstrm opted against a U.S. request to reduce tariffs on the product as part of a limited trade deal, preferring to strike a wider agreement. In the letter, the members thank Lighthizer for his efforts and press him to continue his work to reach a deal that opens new markets for Maine's lobster industry. As we stressed to you previously, the current eight percent E.U. tariff on live American lobster puts the Maine lobster industry at a significant competitive disadvantage compared to its Canadian competitor, which enjoys tariff-free access to the E.U. market under the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA). write Collins, King, and Pingree. Having all but lost the large and growing Chinese export market due to retaliatory Chinese tariffs on American lobster, Maine lobster producers and dealers must find new customers for our state's most iconic product. European buyers would undoubtedly purchase more Maine lobster if, like Canadian lobster, our product entered the E.U. tariff-free. We urge you to continue to strive for the elimination of the E.U. tariff on Maine lobster. Our fishermen and dealers deserve tariff-free access to the European market, and we look forward to continuing our work with you to achieve that goal. Collins, King, and Pingree have repeatedly stood with the lobster industry, which currently faces a number of serious threats including the ongoing trade war with China and potential federal regulations associated with the ongoing North Atlantic right whale take reduction effort. In a February letter, Collins, King, Pingree, and Congressman Jared Golden (D-Maine), asked the USTR to prioritize lobster in negotiations, noting that live lobster exports to China dropped by 64% in the first month after the retaliatory tariffs were imposed. The Maine delegation has also pressed for the Administration to offer funding to help the lobster industry access new markets, and to provide tariff relief to members of the lobster industry affected by the ongoing trade war with China  much as American farmers received government support to mitigate negative effects of the China trade war. The full letter can be downloaded HERE or read below. +++  Dear Ambassador Lighthizer: We appreciate your continued advocacy for tariff relief on American lobster in your ongoing trade negotiations with the European Union, as indicated by recent your correspondence with European Commissioner for Trade Cecilia Malmstrm. Eliminating the E.U. tariff on American lobster would expand a valuable market for Maine lobster producers and dealers. As we stressed to you previously, the current eight percent E.U. tariff on live American lobster puts the Maine lobster industry at a significant competitive disadvantage compared to its Canadian competitor, which enjoys tariff-free access to the E.U. market under the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA). The Canadian industry is poised to reap even greater benefits when the E.U. tariffs on frozen and processed lobster are phased out under CETA, while tariffs ranging from 16 to 20 percent remain on frozen and processed American lobster. Having all but lost the large and growing Chinese export market due to retaliatory Chinese tariffs on American lobster, Maine lobster producers and dealers must find new customers for our state's most iconic product. European buyers would undoubtedly purchase more Maine lobster if, like Canadian lobster, our product entered the E.U. tariff-free. Commissioner Malmstrm indicated in her November 6 to you that the E.U. could certainly address your concerns about E.U. tariffs on products such as lobster, but that given the WTO constraints on bilateral preferences, this should be as part of a wider agreement. While we understand the need for a wider agreement on U.S-E.U. trade, we believe that securing a deal with the E.U. that immediately eliminates E.U. tariffs on Maine lobster should remain a priority. We urge you to continue to strive for the elimination of the E.U. tariff on Maine lobster. Our fishermen and dealers deserve tariff-free access to the European market, and we look forward to continuing our work with you to achieve that goal.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/legislation-cosponsored-by-collins-king-to-combat-plastic-marine-debris-clears-senate-hurdle,"Legislation Cosponsored by Collins, King to Combat Plastic Marine Debris Clears Senate Hurdle",2019-11-15,2019,2019-11,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.  U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King applauded the passage of the Save Our Seas 2.0 Act by the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. This bipartisan bill, introduced in June, seeks to tackle the problem of plastic waste on a global scale by spurring innovation and finding uses for the plastic waste that already exists to keep it from entering the oceans. The legislation builds on the initial progress made by the Save Our Seas Act, which was signed into law last fall. Countless jobs in Maine and in coastal communities across our country rely on the health of the ocean. The Maine lobster, aquaculture, and tourism industries are among the many critical sectors of our economy that are dependent on Maine's pristine waters, said Senator Collins. I encourage our colleagues to join our efforts to protect our ocean and the sea life that inhabits it by supporting the Save Our Sea 2.0 Act, legislation to help accelerate the removal of plastic waste and prevent future marine debris, protecting this vital resource for generations to come. Maine's waters and Maine's well-being are inextricably linked  meaning any threat to our oceans is also a threat to the livelihood of Maine people, said Senator King. This is about protecting our oceans for future generations of Maine people, and I hope to see this legislation continuing to move quickly through the Congress. Roughly eight million metric tons of mismanaged plastic waste from land enters the oceans each year. Ninety percent of this plastic enters the oceans from ten rivers, eight of which are in Asia. The plastic breaks down into tiny pieces that can enter the marine food chain and harm fish and wildlife and wash ashore on even the most isolated stretches of coastline. Plastic has been found in areas as remote as the Mariana Trench, the deepest known point in the ocean. This week, Senator Collins was honored with the Congressional Champion of 2019 Award from ConservAmerica for her leadership in conservation and clean energy initiatives at the organization's annual dinner. The Save Our Seas 2.0 Act is also cosponsored by Senators Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Rob Portman (R-Ohio), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Tom Carper (D-Del.), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), David Perdue (R-Ga.), Brian Schatz (D- Hawaii), and Ted Cruz (R-Texas).",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-back-bill-to-support-and-expand-regional-greenhouse-gas-reduction-programs,"Collins, King Back Bill to Support and Expand Regional Greenhouse Gas Reduction Programs",2019-11-14,2019,2019-11,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Senator Angus King (I-Maine) today joined a number of their colleagues in introducing bipartisan legislation to support and expand programs such as the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI), a collaborative effort across the states of Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island, and Vermont to use market-based tools to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the power sector. Specifically, the legislation would establish an Office of Regional Greenhouse Gas Reduction Programs at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to support the establishment of new regional greenhouse gas reduction programs and expand existing programs. There is no doubt that climate change poses a significant threat to our economy and our natural resources, including Maine's forestry, fishing, agricultural, tourism, and recreation industries, said Senator Collins. This significant challenge requires cooperation at all levels of government and across geographical boundaries to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This bipartisan bill would add to the work already being done through the multi-state Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative by creating an office within the EPA to strengthen and support new regional greenhouse gas reduction programs. Climate change is a global challenge, but that doesn't mean that the solutions are the same wherever you live, said Senator King. Maine's power needs are different than New Mexico's, so it only makes sense that we would use varied, customized approaches to achieve the same goal. That's where regional-specific programs come in: by working with neighboring states that share energy opportunities and challenges, we can improve collaboration and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. These programs have already made a major impact in New England; let's give them added support so they can do more good work in the fight against climate change. The Regional Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act of 2019 would establish an office at the EPA to support the establishment of new regional greenhouse gas reduction programs and expand existing programs. This office would provide analysis and technical assistance to help establish new regional greenhouse gas reduction programs, expand existing programs such as RGGI and the Western Climate Initiative, and support states that are already members of such programs. The bill would also provide grants for state and local governments to take preliminary steps toward developing or participating in a regional greenhouse gas reduction program. This bipartisan legislation is cosponsored by Senators Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Tom Carper (D-Del.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), and Chris Coons (D-Del.), all of whom represent states currently participating in RGGI, as well as Bob Casey (D-Penn.), whose state has taken steps recently to join the initiative.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-continues-to-stress-need-for-us-to-reenter-paris-climate-agreement,King Continues to Stress Need for U.S. to Reenter Paris Climate Agreement,2019-11-14,2019,2019-11,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) advocated for the United States to reassert its global leadership on climate issues and rejoin the Paris Climate Agreement. Senator King's comments came during a hearing in the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee featuring testimony from current Acting Secretary of Energy Dan Brouillette, nominee to be the Secretary of Energy. Senator Barrasso said quote we can't tackle climate change alone', said Senator King, citing comments made moments earlier by U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.). I couldn't agree with him more. I hope that he'll urge the President to rejoin the Paris Climate Accord, which is the only ongoing international effort to deal with this issue. A molecule of greenhouse gas which comes from the United States cause as much of a climate problem as one that comes from China, or India or anywhere else in the world. So, I'm going to speak to Senator Barrasso afterwards; I'm delighted he's taken an interest in this and hope we can get back into our area of global leadership and join the other 197 signatories to the Paris Accord. Later in the hearing, Senator King emphasized to Acting Secretary Brouillette the importance of championing the research done at the Department of Energy (DOE): I don't think there's much more important in what you're doing  than research, said Senator King. And we talked a lot about energy independence and the fracking revolution, which as you know was largely supported by research funds from the Department of EnergyI just want to hear you reassure me that your commitment will be strong and vigorous and forward looking research  whether it's in the national labs or throughout the department, ARPA-E. These are very important in the national interests in my view. Acting Secretary Brouillette responded to Senator King by agreeing on the importance of research in unlocking next generation energy solutions in storage and renewables. A forceful advocate for clean energy solutions wherever they can be found, Senator King is the lead sponsor on a range of bills that encourage energy efficiency such as theNext Generation Grid Resources and Infrastructure Development (GRID) Actto improve energy independence, foster innovation, and leverage federal resources to support a more resilient and modern electric grid. At the beginning of November, he joined the bipartisan Senate Climate Solutions Caucus. In June, Senator King joined his colleagues to introduce the Renewable Electricity Standard (RES) Act of 2019, to require electricity providers across the country to increase their supply of renewable energy each year  aiming to set a nationwide standard of 50% renewable electricity by 2035.In a May hearing, Senator King highlightedthe grave dangers posed by rapidly rising carbon dioxide (CO2) levels in the atmosphere, and emphasized the importance of global collaboration in order to fully and effectively respond to the threats of climate change. In April, he published a column on Earth Daylaying out the ambitious and attainable stepsAmerica must take to respond to the challenges of climate change. In February, Senator Kingtook to the Senate floor to urge action on climate change. He strongly opposed the Administration's decision towithdraw from the Paris Climate Agreement.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-cosponsors-bill-to-cut-aviation-carbon-emissions-and-airplane-noise-pollution,King Cosponsors Bill to Cut Aviation Carbon Emissions and Airplane Noise Pollution,2019-11-14,2019,2019-11,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), a member of the bipartisan Climate Solutions Caucus, has announced his support for the Cleaner, Quieter Airplanes Act, which would direct the National Aeronautics & Space Administration (NASA) to develop electric aircraft technology on an accelerated timeline. The legislation supports the U.S. aviation industry's efforts to develop airplanes that produce 50 percent less greenhouse gas pollution and less noise, keeping domestic aviation companies competitive with the international industry. In the fight to reduce carbon emissions, we need to look at every segment of our society, and that includes our aviation industry, said Senator King. Moreover, noise pollution can highly affect people's health and quality of life. NASA employs some of the brightest minds in the world  so let's put them to work on a project of global urgency that reduces our environmental impact, improves our public health, and enhances the livability of our communities. This legislation sets a goal for cleaner, quieter airplanes by 2030 (regional transport planes) and 2040 (single-aisle planes), and it authorizes NASA to accelerate its work developing and demonstrating the technologies to make this goal a reality. The initiative established in this legislation will help drive industry growth and innovation, maintain our competitiveness with other countries that are moving aggressively on electrified propulsion technologies, and ensure that United States airlines can continue to fly with U.S.-generated technology to other countries as those countries adopt stricter standards for noise and emissions. A forceful advocate for clean energy solutions wherever they can be found, Senator King is the lead sponsor on a range of bills that encourage energy efficiency such as theNext Generation Grid Resources and Infrastructure Development (GRID) Actto improve energy independence, foster innovation, and leverage federal resources to support a more resilient and modern electric grid. In June, Senator King joined his colleagues to introduce the Renewable Electricity Standard (RES) Act of 2019, to require electricity providers across the country to increase their supply of renewable energy each year  aiming to set a nationwide standard of 50% renewable electricity by 2035.In a May hearing, Senator King highlightedthe grave dangers posed by rapidly rising carbon dioxide (CO2) levels in the atmosphere, and emphasized the importance of global collaboration in order to fully and effectively respond to the threats of climate change. In April, he published a column on Earth Daylaying out the ambitious and attainable stepsAmerica must take to respond to the challenges of climate change. In February, Senator Kingtook to the Senate floor to urge action on climate change. He strongly opposed the Administration's decision towithdraw from the Paris Climate Agreement.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-seeking-reforms-to-opportunity-zone-program-to-better-benefit-low-income-communities,King Seeking Reforms to Opportunity Zone Program to Better Benefit Low-Income Communities,2019-11-14,2019,2019-11,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) announced his support of the Opportunity Zone Reporting and Reform Act to overhaul the Internal Revenue Service (IRS)'s Opportunity Zone program, which was created to incentivize investment in low-income communities. The bill would require qualified investors to submit annual informational returns on their Opportunity Zone investments, bringing essential transparency to a Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 program that likely has produced wasteful tax expenditures. Since the implementation of the program, the lack of transparency, absence of reporting requirements, and questionable zone designations have raised the need for increased requirements and reform of the program itself. The road to bad legislation is paved with good intentions and rushed processes. The Opportunity Zone program has strong potential and noble goals  in fact, it is one of the few provisions of the 2017 tax bill that truly focused on helping low-income communities, said Senator King. However, the implementation of this program has been beset by flaws that limit transparency and direct money away from areas in need. These are serious problems, which undermine the worthwhile goals of Opportunity Zones. Let's work together to improve this program, so we can redirect the funding to folks who truly need help. Additionally, the legislation would: Require annual, public information reporting from Opportunity Funds and annual statements to the IRS from fund investors.Eliminate loopholes that could allow sin list investments like casinos and prohibit investments in stadiums and luxury apartments.Terminate zones that are not low-income or impoverished, while allowing states to replace zones that are terminated.Tighten existing rules to ensure that this generous incentive goes to productive, new investments that are actually in zones, and not to projects that were already underway or investors trying to park their money tax-free. Senator King has been a vocal critic of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, criticizing its rushed process and substantial increases to the national debt  including conducting research in August detailing the way tax cuts enacted in the past two decades have exacerbated the U.S.'s growing debt. He has worked to reverse provisions of the legislation which negatively impact Maine families since its passage in late 2017; for example, in July, Senator King cosponsored a bill that will reverse a 2017 tax bill provision causing cooperative organizations to lose their non-profit status by accepting federal grant funding. In May, the U.S. Senate passed legislation that Senator King cosponsored to provide financial relief for Gold Star families impacting by higher taxes. Earlier that month, he pushed to correct an imbalance and ensure the same tax treatment for towable RVs as motorized RVs  a provision that was harming Maine auto dealers. In April, Senator King cosponsored bipartisan legislation to ensure that all federal employees who qualify to have their moving costs reimbursed by the government are also repaid for the taxes owed on relocation reimbursements  a longstanding fiscal policy that the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act eliminated. Senator King was named a 2016 Fiscal Hero' by the nonpartisan Campaign to Fix the Debt.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-honors-maine-veterans-at-events-in-portland-augusta-and-waterville,"King Honors Maine Veterans At Events in Portland, Augusta, and Waterville",2019-11-11,2019,2019-11,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WATERVILLE, ME  Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) honored Veterans Day at events celebrating Maine veterans in Portland, Augusta, and Waterville. Senator King began his morning highlighting veterans healthcare providers alongside veterans, their families, and staff from Martin's Point Healthcare in Portland. Senator King then met with veterans and VA leadership at Togus VA Medical Center in Augusta. At Togus he toured the new Fisher House, which is dedicated to providing a comfortable and supportive environment for veterans. Following these events, Senator King joined the Veteran Mentors of Maine at the Elks Club in Waterville to celebrate the addition of two new veteran justice outreach workers that Senator King advocated for in 2017. On this Veterans Day, it is my privilege to thank Maine's men and women who answered the call to serve in defense of our nation, said Senator King. The veterans I spoke with today, and their devoted families, represent the best of America. We're proud that so many of our neighbors and friends answered the call to serve our nation  indeed, over ten percent of Maine people are veterans. Not only today, but each day of the year, we should take the time to acknowledge what Maine's servicemembers have done to keep us safe and what they've done to inspire future generations. These men and women form the backbone of our communities: they are teachers, moms and dads, first responders, business owners, and mentors. They are people bound together by an ethic of service, dedicated to furthering the American experiment and fostering a more free and just nation. Senator King has been an advocate for Maine veterans during his time in the U.S. Senate, working to honor their service and provide them with the high-quality care they have earned through their service. This week, Senator King joined the Maine delegation in sending a letter to U.S. Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA) Robert Wilkie raising the issue of late payments from the VA to Maine community hospitals and health care providers. Last month, Senator King announced that the Department of Veterans Affairshas awarded a lease contract for a new Community Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC) in Portland. The facility will allow more veterans to access care in their own communities and reduce the strain on Togus. In June, Senator King took part in theofficial, bipartisan Senate delegation to Normandy, France,to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the D-Day invasion by Allied forces during World War II. In May, he spoke at Maine Veterans' Memorial Cemetery in Augustato pay tribute to America's fallen heroesand honor the sacrifices of America's veterans and their families.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/-in-falmouth-king-touts-forest-economy-and-environmental-stewardship,"In Falmouth, King Touts Forest Economy and Environmental Stewardship",2019-11-08,2019,2019-11,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"FALMOUTH, ME  Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) celebrated the contributions of Maine's forest economy while emphasizing the importance of environmental stewardship at the Land Conservation Assistance Network (LandCAN) panel discussion and forum in Falmouth. Senator King's remarks focused on the economic impact of Maine's forest products industry, which supports communities throughout the state, and the importance of balance in protecting Maine's natural resources. The event, titled May the Forests be With You, celebrated Maine's forests and leaders in the state's bioeconomy. Maine's forests are among our state's greatest natural assets, and we need to manage this resource in a way that maximizes its current and future value to Maine people, said Senator King. If we work together, we can build on our success and put Maine's forests in the best possible position to thrive. That is the spirit of today's event: bringing folks from all different sectors to the table to discuss new investments, cutting-edge innovations, and environmental stewardship efforts. Senator King is a strong supporter of efforts to revitalize Maine's forest economy to further economic opportunities for Maine people. He was key in establishingthe Forest Opportunity Roadmap Maine (FOR/ME) Initiative, an industry-led initiative that is helping to diversify the state's wood products businesses, attract investments, support research and development, and develop greater economic prosperity for rural communities impacted by mill closures. The FOR/ME Initiative was funded as a result of the Economic Development Assessment Team (EDAT)requested by Senators Collins and King in 2016, with support from the U.S. Department of Commerce's Economic Development Administration in order to create strategies for job growth and economic development in Maine's rural communities. FOR/ME developed and is implementing a roadmap and action plan for the development of new markets for Maine's forest resources, including the strengthening of existing forest products manufacturing, the attraction of investment in emerging technology, and the utilization of forest products residuals in CHP biomass plants, microgrids, modern thermal systems, and new forest products development. The FOR/ME Initiative has already resulted inmultiplefunding opportunities for Maine organizations and new investment in Maine's forest economy. As the Ranking Member of the Senate Subcommittee on National Parks, Senator King is recognized in Congress as a champion of efforts to preserve, protect, and promote America's national parks and public lands. He is alead sponsor of theRestore Our Parks Act,bipartisan legislation which would address the nearly $12 billion maintenance backlog without affecting the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF). Senator King has long advocated in favor ofpermanent reauthorization of the LWCF, which was signed into law as part of the public lands package in early March.In August, Senator King presented the inaugural Senator Angus King Award for Conservation Excellence'. The award, which was created by the Rangeley Lakes Heritage Trust, will be an annual award given to environmental champions who work outside of the public spotlight to care for Maine's environment.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-urging-action-to-update-banking-laws-for-legal-hemp-and-cannabis-businesses,King Urging Action to Update Banking Laws for Legal Hemp and Cannabis Businesses,2019-11-08,2019,2019-11,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) sent a letter to U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Chairman of the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs, and Senator Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Ranking Member of the Committee, urging consideration of the House-passed Secure and Fair Enforcement (SAFE) Banking Act. The bipartisan bill would ensure that legal hemp and cannabis businesses can access the same financial services utilized by all other legal businesses. The bill has already passed the House of Representatives by an overwhelming 321-103 vote, and would solve key logistical and public safety problems in states like Maine that recently have legalized medicinal or recreational cannabis. Senator King is a cosponsor of the Senate version of the legislation. Senator King's request of the Committee comes on the heels ofafter a report by the Portland Press Herald highlighted the impact that the Senate's inaction on the bill already has had on two Maine farmers, who have lost their bank account and insurance coverage as a result of their decision to legally farm hemp. Hemp businesses in Maine face banking access issues that threaten the viability of their operations. They need our help, wrote Senator King. I urge you to mark up the House-passed SAFE Banking Act (H.R.1595) and report this important legislation out of the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs speedily so that our hemp businesses can obtain the financial services they require. People like Taryn and Ben Marcus, who own Sheepscot General Farm in Whitefield, Maine, have suffered due to the lack of hemp banking regulation, Senator King continued. Taryn and Ben are hemp farmers who have done everything right. They applied for and received licenses from the State of Maine; they researched the best growing practices; they bought state-approved seeds; they actively marketed their crop; and they grew legal hemp successfully. Due to a lack of federal regulation regarding hemp banking, however, Taryn and Ben have lost access to financial services. Their bank recently closed Sheepscot General Farm's account and called its $12,000 equipment loan. Additionally, their insurance company canceled the policy that covered the farm, general store, and the Marcus home. Now, left without financing or an ability to insure against loss, Ben and Taryn, who, in Taryn's words, tiptoed out of the dark woods of prohibition, guided by our elected officials, feel as though they have been blindsided and are unjustly at risk of losing the legal livelihood that they worked hard to build. The House-passed SAFE Banking Act would require banking regulators to issue guidance on hemp to financial institutions. With such guidance in hand, banks, credit unions, and insurance companies could offer financial services to small businesspeople like Taryn and Ben in a legally sound way. The House-passed SAFE Banking Act would prevent federal banking regulators from: Prohibiting, penalizing or discouraging a bank from providing financial services to a legitimate state-sanctioned and regulated hemp or cannabis business, or an associated business (such as a lawyer or landlord providing services to a legal cannabis business);Terminating or limiting a bank's federal deposit insurance solely because the bank is providing services to a state-sanctioned hemp or cannabis business or associated business;Recommending or incentivizing a bank to halt or downgrade providing any kind of banking services to these businesses; orTaking any action on a loan to an owner or operator of a hemp or cannabis-related business.The bill also creates a safe harbor from criminal prosecution and liability and asset forfeiture for banks and their officers and employees who provide financial services to legitimate, state-sanctioned hemp or cannabis businesses, while maintaining banks' right to choose not to offer those services. The full letter can be read below, or downloaded HERE. +++ Senator Mike Crapo  Chairman  Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs  534 Dirksen Senate Office Building  Washington, DC 20510 Senator Sherrod Brown Ranking Member Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs 534 Dirksen Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 Dear Chairman Crapo and Ranking Member Brown: Hemp businesses in Maine face banking access issues that threaten the viability of their operations. They need our help. I urge you to mark up the House-passed SAFE Banking Act (H.R.1595) and report this important legislation out of the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs speedily so that our hemp businesses can obtain the financial services they require. A lack of federal banking regulation in response to hemp's federal legalization has left financial institutions without a firm legal basis for providing services to hemp-related businesses. As you know, the 2018 Farm Bill removed hemp from the list of controlled substances. Yet, federal banking regulators have not promulgated regulations to provide financial institutions with the guidance that they need to handle hemp funds in a legally sound way. USDA hemp regulations released on October 31 also do not provide the type of meaningful instruction that banks and insurance companies need before they can serve hemp businesses. People like Taryn and Ben Marcus, who own Sheepscot General Farm in Whitefield, Maine, have suffered due to the lack of hemp banking regulation. Taryn and Ben are hemp farmers who have done everything right. They applied for and received licenses from the State of Maine; they researched the best growing practices; they bought state-approved seeds; they actively marketed their crop; and they grew legal hemp successfully. Due to a lack of federal regulation regarding hemp banking, however, Taryn and Ben have lost access to financial services. Their bank recently closed Sheepscot General Farm's account and called its $12,000 equipment loan. Additionally, their insurance company canceled the policy that covered the farm, general store, and the Marcus home. Now, left without financing or an ability to insure against loss, Ben and Taryn, who, in Taryn's words, tiptoed out of the dark woods of prohibition, guided by our elected officials, feel as though they have been blindsided and are unjustly at risk of losing the legal livelihood that they worked hard to build. The House-passed SAFE Banking Act would require banking regulators to issue guidance on hemp to financial institutions. With such guidance in hand, banks, credit unions, and insurance companies could offer financial services to small businesspeople like Taryn and Ben in a legally sound way. In addition to helping small businesspeople like the Marcuses, the SAFE Banking Act has earned my support for a reason that is implicit in its title: it will make our communities safer. Like you, I champion the reduction of crime. By enabling hemp and cannabis businesses to access the financial system through passage of H.R.1595, Congress will protect financial institutions from engaging in illegal transactions, and will safeguard our communities against the crime that follows cash. Many small bankers and credit union employees in Maine fear that their institutions could face drug trafficking or money laundering charges for banking hemp or cannabis funds, even given their good-faith attempts to turn away such deposits. The potential for crime has increased as large amounts of cash, generated by businesses that many states, including Maine, deem legal, sit in our communities, unable to enter the banking system. Even Secretary Mnuchin has indicated that Treasury would rather not receive tax payments in cash. Cash tax payments have forced the IRS to build special cash rooms for cannabis businesses that are unable to make electronic tax payments. Our constituents deserve the security that passage of the House's SAFE Banking Act would provide. We owe hardworking owners of legal small businesses like Taryn and Ben Marcus the opportunity to protect their investments and to obtain financing that all other small businesspeople have. Our colleagues and I are eager to debate the SAFE Banking Act on the Senate floor. I urge you to mark up H.R.1595 immediately, and I also urge you to report the bill soon so that the full Senate can consider and vote on it. Thank you for your consideration.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/maine-delegation-urges-va-to-fix-payment-problems-hurting-maine-healthcare-providers-veterans,"Maine Delegation Urges VA to Fix Payment Problems Hurting Maine Healthcare Providers, Veterans",2019-11-08,2019,2019-11,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King and Representatives Chellie Pingree and Jared Golden sent a letter to U.S. Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA) Robert Wilkie to raise the issue of late payments from the VA to Maine community hospitals and health care providers. As the lawmakers note in their letter, the Maine Hospital Association states the VA currently owes millions of dollars to fifteen Maine hospitals, and nearly a third of those delinquent claims are more than six months past due. The issue has placed an undue burden on Maine's healthcare providers, potentially forcing some to suspend their services through the VA and risking the ability of Maine veterans to access care in their communities. Over the course of the last several months, we have heard from Maine community hospitals and health care providers about their growing concerns that the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has not been diligent or timely with the payments it owes providers for the community care services they deliver to eligible veterans, said Senators Collins and King and Representatives Pingree and Golden. The Maine Hospital Association (MHA), which represents critical access hospitals across the state, reports that fifteen of its member hospitals currently have millions of dollars of delinquent payments in their claims backlog. Of these accounts, about thirty percent are more than 180 days old. Likewise, a number of other qualified providers from across the state of Maine have contacted our offices to report similar issues with the VA that have resulted in aging accounts and significant financial duress. We respectfully request that the VA quickly pay all valid and eligible claims, provide an explanation for delayed payments, and outline its reporting process on paid claims, the delegation added. The delegation's full letter can be downloaded HERE or read below: +++ Dear Secretary Wilkie, We write to bring to your attention an urgent matter of grave importance for the veterans of Maine. Over the course of the last several months, we have heard from Maine community hospitals and health care providers about their growing concerns that the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has not been diligent or timely with the payments it owes providers for the community care services they deliver to eligible veterans. The Maine Hospital Association (MHA), which represents critical access hospitals across the state, reports that fifteen of its member hospitals currently have millions of dollars of delinquent payments in their claims backlog. Of these accounts, about thirty percent are more than 180 days old. Likewise, a number of other qualified providers from across the state of Maine have contacted our offices to report similar issues with the VA that have resulted in aging accounts and significant financial duress. The VA's community care options have helped Maine veterans in rural parts of the state receive care in their local communities instead of traveling long distances to the Togus VA Medical Center in Augusta. We expect that the Veterans Community Care Program, as authorized by the VA Mission Act of 2018, will build on the Veterans Choice Program to improve timeliness and accessibility for veterans who may live far from VA facilities; we will continue to closely track its implementation to ensure its success. Timely community care, however, is contingent upon broad participation by community providers and a good faith relationship between those providers and the VA. We are aware of community care providers who may be forced to suspend their service with the VA or have already done so due to the administrative and financial challenges of serving veterans referred by the VA. Due to such challenges, Maine veterans are at risk of losing access to care close to their homes. We respectfully request that the VA quickly pay all valid and eligible claims, provide an explanation for delayed payments, and outline its reporting process on paid claims. Thank you for your attention to this matter. Community care providers in Maine offer critical services for our veterans, and they are proud to help care for those who have served. We urge the VA to work closely with these providers to address this payment issue and work to strengthen these relationships so our veterans can continue to receive the accessible, high-quality care they deserve.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-more-than-2-million-to-support-drug-free-communities,"Collins, King Announce More than $2 Million to Support Drug-Free Communities",2019-11-07,2019,2019-11,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.  U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced that the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) has awarded a total of $2,125,000 in grant funding to 17 Maine health coalitions and local governments to prevent youth substance abuse and foster drug-free communities in Maine. Last year, drug overdoses claimed the life of 354 Mainers, nearly one person each day. We must take an all-hands-on-deck approach to stop this epidemic and support those who are struggling with substance use disorders,said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. This important funding will help Maine health coalitions and communities strengthen their efforts to prevent and reduce substance abuse through programs that promote a healthy lifestyle and community involvement. The funding will be allocated as follows: River Valley Health Communities Coalition will receive $125,000 to serve Rumford and the Greater River Valley Region.Gardiner Area Substance Use Prevention Coalition will receive $125,000 to serve Gardiner, Pittston, Randolph, and West Gardiner.Bangor Public Health Advisory Board Substance Abuse Prevention Task Force will receive $125,000 to serve the City of Bangor.Healthy Acadia will receive $125,000 to serve the Downeast Acadia region.Somerset Public Health will receive $125,000 to serve Somerset County.Drug Free Aroostook will receive $125,000 to serve Aroostook County.Healthy Community Coalition will receive $125,000 to serve Franklin County.Healthy Sebasticook Valley Coalition will receive $125,000 to serve the Sebasticook Valley region.Choose To Be Healthy Coalition will receive $125,000 to serve Southern York County.Project Alliance will receive $125,000 to serve Northern York County.ACCESS Health will receive $125,000 to serve Sagadahoc County, as well as Brunswick and Harpswell.Be the Influence Coalition will receive $125,000 to serve Windham and Raymond.Sanford Strong Coalition will receive $125,000 to serve the greater Sanford community.SoPo Unite: All Ages, All In will receive $125,000 to serve South Portland.Casco Bay Create Awareness Now Coalition will receive $125,000 to serve Cumberland, Falmouth, Freeport, Gray, New Gloucester, North Yarmouth, Pownal, and Yarmouth.Healthy Lincoln County Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition will receive $125,000 to serve Lincoln County.Mid-Maine Substance Use Prevention Coalition will receive $125,000 to serve Waterville, Winslow, Fairfield, Albion, Benton, Rome, Oakland, Rome, Sidney, Belgrade, Vassalboro, China, and Unity Township. This funding was awarded through the ONDCP's Drug-Free Communities (DFC) Support Program. Created by the Drug-Free Communities Act of 1997, DFC spearheads efforts to mobilize communities to prevent youth substance abuse. The program provides grants to community coalitions to strengthen the infrastructure among local partners to create and sustain a reduction in local youth substance use.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-colleagues-introduce-bill-to-get-deficit-under-control-reform-congressional-budget-process,"King, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Get Deficit Under Control, Reform Congressional Budget Process",2019-11-07,2019,2019-11,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) has joined a bipartisan group of his colleagues to introduce legislation that would make common-sense improvements to the federal government's budget process. The Bipartisan Congressional Budget Reform Act would create a more deliberative budget process that emphasizes long-term fiscal planning over partisan brinksmanship and tackles growing debt and deficits. Here's a statement that won't draw a lot of disagreement: Congress's current budget process is just not working, said Senator King. Under the current rules, we're voting on the future of programs that provide vital services for the American people mere hours before deadlines to keep maintain America's full faith and credit. The result: our deficit is increasing and we're leaving an enormous amount of debt to future generations. There have to be better ways to advance America's budget priorities, and we owe it to our constituents to work together to find them. Specifically, the Bipartisan Congressional Budget Reform Act would: Move the budget resolution to a two-year cycle, while maintaining an annual appropriations process.Require more involvement from Senate spending and taxing committees, including by requiring detailed spending and revenue plans to better inform budget development.Support fiscal sustainability by requiring the budget resolution to establish a debt-to-GDP target backed by expedited congressional procedures for deficit-reduction measures. Create a mechanism within the regular budget process to end the brinksmanship surrounding the statutory debt limit by conforming the limit to levels called for in the budget resolution. Establish an optional new bipartisan budget pathway through which the budget would set deficit reduction priorities that include health care, revenue levels, appropriations, and tax expenditures. Such bipartisan budgets would require the support of at least 60 Senators, including at least 15 members of the minority party, and would be considered in the Senate under expedited procedures jointly agreed to by the Majority and Minority Leaders.Provide a more orderly, deliberative process for Senate consideration of budget resolutions that preserves the ability of Senators on both sides of the aisle to offer amendments.Enhance fiscal transparency by requiring that up-to-date tabulations of congressional budget action be publicly posted and that information on the interest effects of authorizing and revenue legislation be included in cost estimates prepared by the Congressional Budget Office (CBO). The legislation also supports transparency efforts underway at CBO.Require CBO and the Government Accountability Office to regularly review and report to Congress on portfolios of federal spending to help lawmakers make more informed budgetary decisions. Senator King, who was named a 2016 Fiscal Hero' by the nonpartisan Campaign to Fix the Debt, was among the most vocal critics of the 2017 tax legislation because of its strong potential impact to increase the national debt substantially. He introduced an amendment prior to passage that would instruct a Senate committee tocreate a deficit-neutral versionof the legislation, and a motion after passage that would have required the conference committee to return a version of the tax legislation whichdid not increase the deficit; both provisions were defeated on party lines. In addition to Senator King, the legislation is supported by the following U.S. Senators: Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Mike Enzi (R-Wyo.) Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Roy Blunt (R-Mo.), Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), David Perdue (R-Ga.), John Kennedy (R-La.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), and Mike Braun (R-Ind.).",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-advocates-for-initiatives-to-boost-maines-clean-energy-production,King Advocates for Initiatives to Boost Maine’s Clean Energy Production,2019-11-06,2019,2019-11,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.  Today in an Energy Subcommittee hearing of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) advocated for his legislation that would support businesses investing in energy efficiency technology, help diversify energy options for rural industries, and maximize the value of Maine's natural resources. The Combined Heat and Power (CHP) Support Act reauthorizesand funds the CHP Technical Assistance Partnerships (TAP) program for the next five years  a program that has helped multiple Maine businesses install energy-efficient CHP equipment and save on energy costs. Currently, there are ten regional CHP TAP designated centersincluding the University of Mainewhich serves the New England region. During his opening statement, Senator King also underscored the DOE's support of UMaine's New England Aqua Ventus I Project, which may soon be the first floating offshore wind development in the United States. The hearing featured testimony from Daniel Simmons, Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. Ithank the Department for its steadfast support of the Aqua Ventus program in Maine, which I think is one of the most promising of the technologiesyour support and the Department's support consistently has meant a lot, said Senator King in the hearing. I think that project is really getting very close to having all the pieces together, so I want to thank you for that and also thank you for your interest in Combined Heat and Power. That is a technology that we have in hand and I know that the Department has been supportive  you've been up to the university. The technical support center is making a real difference for businesses throughout the country, actually. I think the department has identified something like 150 gigawatts of potential power from combined heat and power, potential in the countrythat compares to 300 good sized power plants. So, very efficient use, and I appreciate your support and look forward to working with you on these projects. King originallyintroduced the CHP Support Act in 2017, after he hosted aSenate Energy and Natural Resources Committee field hearing at Robbins Lumber in Searsmont. The field hearing included witnesses from the Maine forest products and energy industries as well as the Director of the Advanced Manufacturing Office in the DOE. During the hearing, Senator King's committee colleagues identified opportunities to use new energy efficient technologies to sustain and strengthen rural industries. Following the event, the University of Maine was designated as a regional CHP TAP institution by the DOE. As one of UMaine's signature projects, the New England Aqua Ventus I project won $40 million from the DOE to support phase three, which will deploy deepwaterfloating turbines off of Maine's coast. Senator King has supported the New England Aqua Ventus Isince the project's announcement in 2016. In July, Senators King and Susan Collins (R-Maine) welcomed Secretary Simmons to UMaine for a tour of the university's Advanced Structures and Composites Center (ASCC). Discussions during the tour and meetings focused on the status of the Aqua Ventus project and steps to revitalize the state's forest economy through a new partnership developing advanced 3D printing materials. The visit came after a May announcement of a partnership between Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) and the University of Maine to launch a first in the nation large-scale bio-based additive manufacturing program. The collaboration will provide ASCC students, faculty and associated companies with access to ORNL's assets and expertise in advanced manufacturing. ORNL researchers, in turn, will gain access to UMaine's facilities and expertise in sustainable composites. The partnership will advance 3D printing capabilities with wood residuals, establishing Maine as a global leader in a new manufacturing process and developing fresh markets for Maine's forest products industry. Senator King is a strong supporter of efforts to revitalize Maine's forest economy to further economic opportunities for Maine people. He was key in establishingthe Forest Opportunity Roadmap Maine (FOR/ME) Initiative, an industry-led initiative that is helping to diversify the state's wood products businesses, attract investments, support research and development, and develop greater economic prosperity for rural communities impacted by mill closures. The FOR/ME Initiative was funded as a result of the Economic Development Assessment Team (EDAT)requested by Senators Collins and King in 2016, with support from the U.S. Department of Commerce's Economic Development Administration in order to create strategies for job growth and economic development in Maine's rural communities. FOR/ME is implementing a roadmap and action plan for the development of new markets for Maine's forest resources, including the strengthening of existing forest products manufacturing, the attraction of investment in emerging technology, and the utilization of forest products residuals in CHP biomass plants, microgrids, modern thermal systems, and new forest products development. The FOR/ME Initiative has already resulted inmultiplefunding opportunities for Maine organizations and new investment in Maine's forest economy.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-introduces-preventive-healthcare-bill-encouraging-routine-primary-care-visits,King Introduces Preventive Healthcare Bill Encouraging Routine Primary Care Visits,2019-11-06,2019,2019-11,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) introduced the Primary Care Patient Protection Act to allow consumers enrolled in high-deductible health plans (HDHP) to be covered for two yearly visits to primary care physicians. Under current law, individuals covered by HDHPs have a low premium, but higher costs for medical services  including primary care visits  before their insurance plan begins to cover expenses. As a result, individuals often can't afford the routine visits to the doctor that could detect health concerns before they become larger problems. The Primary Care Patient Protection Act would require HDHPs to offer coverage for two primary care visits per year free of cost-sharing. Representatives Brad Schneider (D-Ill.) and Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.) have introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives. When I was a young man, I went to the doctor for a free checkup covered by my insurance and received some daunting news: I had serious, and potentially life-threatening, form of skin cancer, said Senator King. Without that visit, I would not be here today. It's always haunted me, though, that somewhere in America  that same week  another young person, who had my condition but not my insurance, wasn't able to catch their disease in time for treatment. I'm living proof that access to a primary care physician matters, and this legislation will make it easier for every American to receive the same lifesaving care that I did all those years ago. The American Academy of Family Physicians applauds Sen. Angus King for introducing the Primary Care Patient Protection Act of 2019 to the Senate, said Gary LeRoy, M.D., President of the American Academy of Family Physicians. This bill takes the financial fear away from Americans who seek care from their primary care physicians. By allowing two no-cost primary care visits each year, the Primary Care Patient Protection Act helps ensure patients will get the care they need before they develop a condition that requires intensive, more costly attention. High deductible health plans can be a harmfully high hurdle to the health of my patients, said Dr. Patrick Connolly, Family Physician, Portland. Too many of my patients with these plans are skipping their primary care visits and delaying care due to fear of out of pocket costs. The Primary Care Patient Protection Act helps ease these fears. By requiring that high deductible plans cover two visits a year at no extra cost to patients, Sen. King's bill will reassure Maine patients that they can see their family doctor before they've met their deductible and before a health concern becomes a serious problem. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) defines a high-deductible health plan as any plan with a deductible of at least $1,350 for an individual or $2,700 for a family. An HDHP enrollee's total yearly out-of-pocket expenses  including deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance  cannot be more than $6,650 for an individual or $13,300 for a family. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) found that those enrolled in an HDHP were more likely than those enrolled in traditional plan to forgo or delay medical care. Senator King is a champion for prevention policies across the board  including advocating for the benefits and financial efficiency of proactive and preventive healthcare. Just last week, Senator King held a public event in Portland to remind Maine people to register during the current Open Enrollment Period for health care plans. At the end of October, he urged the federal government to evaluate the effectiveness of federal workplace wellness programs. Earlier that month, hehosted a panel discussion in Bangor with local healthcare providers and public wellness expertson the best ways to use prevention strategies to improve health outcomes and reduce costs. As a follow-up to the event, Senator King also focusedhis monthly Inside Maine podcast on the same topic. In May, Senator Kingintroduced the Preventive Health Savings Act of 2019, which would direct the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) to more accurately reflect the cost-savings of preventive healthcare, including health screenings. Under current law, the CBO only measures the budgetary impact of legislation in a ten-year timeframe; in contrast, the Preventive Health Savings Act would allow Congressional Committees reviewing healthcare legislation to request up to two additional ten-year projection windows to provide a better understanding of the legislation's long-term effect on the nation's healthcare spending. In March, Senator Kingintroduced the Personal Health Investment Today (PHIT) Act, which incentivizes healthier living by allowing Americans to use a portion of the money saved in their pre-tax health savings accounts toward qualified sports and fitness purchases such as gym memberships. Also in March, heintroduced legislationto help seniors and individuals with disabilities navigate the complex web of federal home modification programs; by investing in small changes like grab bars in the shower or a ramp in place of stairs, these Americans can reduce the risk of a serious fall that brings major expenses for both the individual and the Medicare and Medicaid systems. In a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing last November, hehighlightedthe importance of pursuing preventive healthcare measures to reduce overall healthcare costs for service members and veterans.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-king-helps-launch-bipartisan-climate-solutions-caucus,Senator King Helps Launch Bipartisan Climate Solutions Caucus,2019-11-06,2019,2019-11,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, announced that he has joined the Senate Climate Solutions Caucus, a bipartisan effort that brings together Republican, Democratic, and Independent members of the Senate to find bipartisan solutions to address climate change. In addition to Senator King, members of the Climate Solutions Caucus include Senators Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Mitt Romney, (R-Utah), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Michael Bennet (D-N.H.), and Chairman of the Energy and Natural Resources Committee Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska). The threats of climate change don't end at party lines, and our work to mitigate these effects can't either, said Senator King. The impacts of this crisis are already being felt in Maine; the Gulf of Maine, which plays a vital role in both our economy and our culture, is warming faster than 99% of the world's oceans. This is the most serious global challenge of our time, and we have areas of bipartisan agreement where we can start working together to make much-needed progress. I'm ready to join with any of my colleagues  from any political party and any corner of the country  to take meaningful steps that will protect the planet for our children and grandchildren. A forceful advocate for clean energy solutions wherever they can be found, Senator King is the lead sponsor on a range of bills that encourage energy efficiency such as theNext Generation Grid Resources and Infrastructure Development (GRID) Actto improve energy independence, foster innovation, and leverage federal resources to support a more resilient and modern electric grid.In a May hearing, Senator King highlightedthe grave dangers posed by rapidly rising carbon dioxide (CO2) levels in the atmosphere, and emphasized the importance of global collaboration in order to fully and effectively respond to the threats of climate change. In April, he published a column on Earth Daylaying out the ambitious and attainable stepsAmerica must take to respond to the challenges of climate change. In February, Senator Kingtook to the Senate floor to urge action on climate change. He strongly opposed the Administration's decision towithdraw from the Paris Climate Agreement. The Senate Climate Solutions Caucus will meet regularly and convene experts from across the political spectrum and private sector to seek common ground and craft bipartisan solutions.The caucus will operate by the principle of unanimous consent,actingonly when each member agrees.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-spotlights-maines-opposition-to-offshore-drilling-in-energy-committee,King Spotlights Maine’s Opposition to Offshore Drilling in Energy Committee,2019-11-05,2019,2019-11,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, in a hearing of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) pressed nominee for Deputy Secretary of the Interior, Katharine MacGregor to ensure that no action is being taken or plans underway from the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) to drill natural resources off of the coast of Maine  reasserting the state's opposition to offshore drilling. During the hearing, Senator King also pressed nominees on their support of the Restore Our Parks Act, conserving natural resources, and improving the efficiency of the electric grid. The other nomination under consideration in today's committee hearing was James Danly, nominee for the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). The exchange with nominee MacGregor included this moment: King: On offshore drilling, I was delighted to hear your answer to Senator [Mike] Lee's question about collaboration and cooperation with state officials. In the state of Maine, our legislature, our governor, and our entire Congressional delegation are adamantly opposed to offshore drilling off our coast. Will you take the same view of the importance of collaboration with state officials in that situation? MacGregor: Absolutely sir. 43 USC 1344 is where we get direction on the administration of the leasing program. It requires our work with the governors of the state and local governments. King: And you will absolutely respect that provision? MacGregor: We will absolutely work every step of the way. We shall work as directed by law. King: Are there plans for drilling or exploration off the New England coast today? MacGregor: I think the Secretary's statement that a five year plan is not imminent right now is correct. We are evaluating the impact of separate litigation on that program. +++ Later in the hearing, Senator King discussed the importance of conserving natural resources for future generations. In the space between our grandparent's birth and our grandchildren's death, we are going to use up essentially all of the fossil fuel that it took hundreds of millions of years on this planet to create, and I just offer that as a thought, said Senator King during the hearing. Forgetting about the environmental effects  which are severe, but that the very fact, in a sense, our generation, our memory of generation is using up something that's a finite resource on the planet, I find disturbing. As we go into Thanksgiving, I think of dad sitting at the end of the table, the turkey comes, all the kids are sitting there, and dad says I'm going to eat all of it'. And that's what we're doing, and I think that's unconscionable from a point of view of simply stewardship of a resource, let alone environmental stewardship. A forceful advocate for clean energy solutions, Senator King is the lead sponsor on a range of bills that encourage energy efficiency such as theNext Generation Grid Resources and Infrastructure Development (GRID) Actto improve energy independence, foster innovation, and leverage federal resources to support a more resilient and modern electric grid. In August, Senators King and Collinsintroduced the Combined Heat and Power (CHP) Act, legislation that would support businesses that want to invest in energy efficiency technology, help diversify energy options for rural industries, and maximize Maine's natural resources. In October, Senator King joined his colleagues in urging the U.S. Department of Health and Human Servicesto release funding for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)as quickly as possible to Maine people who rely on its aid to pay for steep winter heating costs.In a May hearing, Senator King highlightedthe grave dangers posed by rapidly rising carbon dioxide (CO2) levels in the atmosphere, and emphasized the importance of global collaboration in order to fully and effectively respond to the threats of climate change. In April, he published a column on Earth Daylaying out the ambitious and attainable stepsAmerica must take to respond to the challenges of climate change. In February, Senator Kingtook to the Senate floor to urge action on climate change. He strongly opposed the Administration's decision towithdraw from the Paris Climate Agreement.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/maine-delegation-calls-on-us-trade-ambassador-to-protect-maine-jobs-in-ongoing-trade-dispute-with-european-union,Maine Delegation Calls on U.S. Trade Ambassador to Protect Maine Jobs in Ongoing Trade Dispute with European Union,2019-11-05,2019,2019-11,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King and Representatives Chellie Pingree and Jared Golden sent a letter to U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer, calling on him to alleviate the economic hardship affecting Maine businesses as a result of the current trade dispute between the United States and the European Union. In October 2019, the U.S. imposed tariffs on $7.5 billion worth of European products following a World Trade Organization ruling that the European Union illegally subsidized Airbus. The Maine delegation has heard from multiple Maine employers who were harmed by these tariffs. Tariffs imposed by both the U.S. and the E.U. are hurting businesses and consumers in our state. As negotiations continue, we encourage you to avoid subjecting Maine to economic harm, Senators Collins and King and Representatives Pingree and Golden wrote. There has been an immediate strain on companies in the specialty foods and hospitality industries, many of which are small, locally-owned businesses. While we oppose the E.U. efforts to subsidize Airbus, we also recognize that tariffs can cause harm to American jobs and increase the price of goods for American consumers. Addressing unfair trade practices requires a careful approach, and we believe that dialogue is a critical part of the process, the Maine delegation continued. We encourage the Administration to strive quickly for a solution that protects U.S. industry and jobs and promotes economic growth. In their letter, the Maine delegation also noted that the 25 percent retaliatory tariffs that the European Union imposed in June 2018 on U.S. goods in response to Section 232 steel and aluminum tariffs have been detrimental to other industries in Maine, including marine and manufacturing businesses. In 2018, Maine imported $769 million from the European Union and exported nearly $370 million in goods and services, making the bloc our second largest export market. A total of $2.3 million worth of Maine exports have been targeted with tariffs by the European Union. Click HERE to read the delegation's letter",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/at-maine-modern-wood-heat-symposium-king-highlights-new-uses-for-maines-forests,"At Maine Modern Wood Heat Symposium, King Highlights New Uses for Maine’s Forests",2019-11-04,2019,2019-11,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"PORTLAND, ME  Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) delivered the keynote address at the Maine Modern Wood Heat Symposium at the University of Southern Maine's Portland Campus. Senator King, an author and lead sponsor of the Biomass Thermal Utilization Act, shared his insights on the importance of the issue, and discussed his efforts to advance clean energy initiatives and support modern wood heating. The symposium gathered forest economy and clean energy leaders from the public and private sectors to discuss the future of this growing industry  which can both lower emissions and create new opportunities to make use of Maine's vast forests. The Maine State Wood Energy Assistance Team that organized today's event was established by U.S. Department of Agriculture funding, which Senator King advocated for, in 2016.  Maine's vast forests are one of our state's most plentiful resources, and we need to explore every possible way to use this gold mine of fiber  including helping Maine people stay warm during cold winters, said Senator King. Modern wood heating allows us to heat Maine homes, schools, and businesses in a way that will cut energy costs for consumers, create jobs, and reduce emissions. This is a win-win for Maine people, and it's being driven by the leaders who are coming together today to innovate and create new opportunities that drive our economy and our communities forward. Senator King is a strong supporter of efforts to revitalize Maine's forest economy to further economic opportunities for Maine people. He was key in establishingthe Forest Opportunity Roadmap Maine (FOR/ME) Initiative, an industry-led initiative that is helping to diversify the state's wood products businesses, attract investments, support research and development, and develop greater economic prosperity for rural communities impacted by mill closures. The FOR/ME Initiative was funded as a result of the Economic Development Assessment Team (EDAT)requested by Senators Collins and King in 2016, with support from the U.S. Department of Commerce's Economic Development Administration in order to create strategies for job growth and economic development in Maine's rural communities. FOR/ME developed and is implementing a roadmap and action plan for the development of new markets for Maine's forest resources, including the strengthening of existing forest products manufacturing, the attraction of investment in emerging technology, and the utilization of forest products residuals in CHP biomass plants, microgrids, modern thermal systems, and new forest products development. The FOR/ME Initiative has already resulted inmultiplefunding opportunities for Maine organizations and new investment in Maine's forest economy. A forceful advocate for clean energy solutions, Senator King is the lead sponsor on a range of bills that encourage energy efficiency such as theNext Generation Grid Resources and Infrastructure Development (GRID) Actto improve energy independence, foster innovation, and leverage federal resources to support a more resilient and modern electric grid. In August, Senators King and Collins introduced the Combined Heat and Power (CHP) Act, legislation that would support businesses that want to invest in energy efficiency technology, help diversify energy options for rural industries, and maximize Maine's natural resources. In October, Senator King joined his colleagues in urging the U.S. Department of Health and Human Servicesto release funding for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)as quickly as possible to Maine people who rely on its aid to pay for steep winter heating costs.In a May hearing, Senator King highlightedthe grave dangers posed by rapidly rising carbon dioxide (CO2) levels in the atmosphere, and emphasized the importance of global collaboration in order to fully and effectively respond to the threats of climate change. In April, he published a column on Earth Daylaying out the ambitious and attainable stepsAmerica must take to respond to the challenges of climate change. In February, Senator Kingtook to the Senate floor to urge action on climate change. He strongly opposed the Administration's decision towithdraw from the Paris Climate Agreement.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-maine-to-receive-more-than-36-million-for-heating-assistance-for-low-income-mainers,"Collins, King Announce Maine to Receive More Than $36 Million for Heating Assistance for Low-Income Mainers",2019-11-04,2019,2019-11,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.  U.S. Senators Susan Collins, a senior member of the Appropriations Committee, and Angus King today announced that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is releasing a total of $36,175,861 in funding for Maine through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), including $1,322,228 specifically for tribes and tribal organizations. As the cold winter months approach, it is vital that we ensure low-income families and seniors in Maine have access to affordable home energy to protect their health and safety, said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. This funding is welcome news as these programs remain important lifelines that help prevent vulnerable individuals from having to choose between heating their home, paying their bills, or going without food or medicine. Senators Collins and King have long led bipartisan efforts to support federal funding for LIHEAP. In October, Senator Collins wrote a letter with Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) that was cosigned by 33 of their colleagues, including Senator King, urging HHS to release LIHEAP funds without delay and at as high a level as possible under the continuing resolution. HHS released a total of $3.32 billion to states, tribes, and territories, which is approximately 90 percent of the FY 2019 funding level of $3.68 billion. The funding was allocated as follows: State of Maine: $34,853,633Aroostook Band of Micmac Indians: $157,365Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians: $157,365Passamaquoddy Tribe--Indian Township: $300,260Passamaquoddy Tribe--Pleasant Point: $418,917Penobscot Tribe: $288,321",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/at-portland-kickoff-of-aca-open-enrollment-king-urges-maine-people-to-get-covered,"At Portland Kickoff of ACA Open Enrollment, King Urges Maine People to Get Covered",2019-11-01,2019,2019-11,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"PORTLAND, ME  Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) joined Maine healthcare providers and advocates at the Greater Portland Health Clinic to urge Maine people to sign up for healthcare during the shortened enrollment period for the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Today marks the first day of the ACA's 2020 Open Enrollment period, which will run only six weeks and end on December 15th. To sign up for coverage in 2020 during the Open Enrollment period, log on to http://www.healthcare.gov or call 1-800-318-2596 for more information before December 15, 2019. Maine people interested in additional information can also visit coverME.gov, or make a confidential and toll-free call to Consumers for Affordable Health Care at 1-800-965-7476. Today is the first day Maine people can enroll in healthcare for 2020 through the Affordable Care Act  and with only six weeks to sign up, there's no time to waste, said Senator King. Insurance is complicated, and starting your search today will allow you to find the right plan that fits your medical needs and budget. Securing insurance coverage is too important to slip through the cracks  sign up today, and make sure you and your family enter this new year with insurance coverage that keeps you healthy both physical and financially. Senator King is a vocal proponent of efforts to protect and improve the Affordable Care Act, which has helped millions of Americans access healthcare. In May, he announced his support for a Senate resolution rejecting the Department of Justice's (DOJ)decisionto uphold a Texas Federal Judge'srulingthat deems the Affordable Care Act unconstitutional. In July 2018, Senator King joined a group of his colleagues to introduce a resolution that would haveauthorized the Senate Legal Counsel to interveneinTexas v. United States, and in December 2018 he joined a group of Senate colleagues to call on President Trump tocondemnthe resulting decision in the case. He has also fought the Administration'svarious attempts to sabotage the health care law and met with Maine people around the state todiscuss the ACA's importance to their lives.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/on-eve-of-healthcare-enrollment-period-kickoff-king-joins-legislation-to-make-insurance-more-affordable-for-young-adults,"On Eve of Healthcare Enrollment Period Kickoff, King Joins Legislation to Make Insurance More Affordable for Young Adults",2019-10-31,2019,2019-10,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.  One day before the beginning of the Affordable Care Act's 2020 Open Enrollment period, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) helped introduce legislation that increases access to healthcare for young Americans. The Advancing Youth Enrollment Act would improve affordability while maintaining Affordable Care Act protections and access to essential services; as a result, nearly 5 million uninsured young adults could be eligible to receive additional financial support to help reduce their monthly health insurance premiums and out-of-pocket costs. Many young people may think they don't need to worry about a serious health problem  but that's simply not the case. An unexpected illness or injury can strike anyone, at any time, which is why it's so important that we ensure young Americans have access to health insurance that protects them from medical or financial ruin, said Senator King. By making sure they have coverage when emergency strikes, we can help our young people withstand crises and continue to build their lives. As a young startup founder in Maine, I went without health insurance for two years because it felt like a luxury compared to other pressing expenses, said Maddie Purcell, founder of Fyood Kitchen. The constant, low-level worry from knowing I wasn't adequately covered was exhausting. I'm grateful to Senator King and his team for supporting the Advancing Youth Enrollment Act so that others in my position won't have to choose between quality health coverage and getting their careers off the ground. The Advancing Youth Enrollment Act would increase the value of premium tax credits for young adults ages 18 to 35 years old, which would result in more financial support to help them afford quality health coverage. Importantly, this protects older adults and those with pre-existing conditions from facing higher costs or seeing their current tax credits reduced. Under the Advancing Youth Enrollment Act, a young person enrolled through the marketplace would see their cost for a silver plan go down by about $55 a month, or about $650 a year. They would pay $98 a month for a silver plan instead of about $153 a month. In addition, no one would lose coverage for having a pre-existing condition, nor would they have to forfeit essential health benefits provided by the Affordable Care Act to make their policies more affordable. Senator King is a vocal proponent of efforts to protect and improve the Affordable Care Act, which has helped millions of Americans access healthcare. In May, he announced his support for a Senate resolution rejecting the Department of Justice's (DOJ)decisionto uphold a Texas Federal Judge'srulingthat deems the Affordable Care Act unconstitutional. In July 2018, Senator King joined a group of his colleagues to introduce a resolution that would haveauthorized the Senate Legal Counsel to interveneinTexas v. United States, and in December 2018 he joined a group of Senate colleagues to call on President Trump tocondemnthe resulting decision in the case. He has also fought the Administration'svarious attempts to sabotage the health care law,urged Maine people to sign up for health insuranceduring the shortened Open Enrollment period, and met with Maine people around the state todiscuss the ACA's importance to their lives.This year's shortened Open Enrollment period ends December 15.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-colleagues-urge-administration-finalize-ban-of-flavored-e-cigarettes,"King, Colleagues Urge Administration Finalize Ban of Flavored E-Cigarettes",2019-10-30,2019,2019-10,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Angus King (I-Maine) joined with 25 Senate colleagues in urging the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to address the growing epidemic of teen e-cigarette use by removing non-tobacco flavored e-cigarettes from store shelves nationwide. In September, the Administration announced that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) would quickly finalize a compliance policy preventing the sale of unauthorized, non-tobacco flavored e-cigarettesincluding mint and menthol flavorsthat are popular among children; however, there has been no movement on this policy in the months since. We have long advocated for this action and were encouraged that the Administration had finally decided to act. As of today, however, the FDA has neither finalized nor announced when it will finalize the compliance policy and is reportedly considering significantly weakening this policy by exempting mint and menthol products, which your agency's own data have demonstrated are incredibly popular among children, wrote the senators. While the Administration continues to permit the sale of unauthorized, non-tobacco flavored e-cigarette products, each day more children are becoming e-cigarette users  driven primarily by flavors. We strongly urge the Administration to fulfill its promise to clear the market of all unauthorized, non-tobacco flavored e-cigarettes  including mint and menthol flavors  immediately. The senators also expressed their concerns over reports that the FDA is considering exempting mint and menthol flavors, despite its promise to include them in the compliance policy. In the past year, e-cigarette use has increased by more than 75 percent amongst high school students, largely fueled by the appeal of products with flavors like candy, fruit, mint and menthol. Nearly two-thirds of youth that use e-cigarettes use mint and menthol products. The full letter can be read below or downloadedHERE. +++ The Honorable Alex M. Azar II Secretary  U.S. Department of Health and Human Services 200 Independence Avenue, SW Washington, DC 20201 Dear Secretary Azar, We write with significant concerns about the continued delay by the Trump Administration in issuing a compliance policy to address the terrible epidemic of e-cigarette use among children. After years of delay and inaction, which fueled this epidemic, the Trump Administration announced on September 11, 2019, that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) intended to finalize a compliance policy in the coming weeks that would prioritize the agency's enforcement of the premarket authorization requirements for non-tobacco flavored e-cigarettes, including mint and menthol, clearing the market of unauthorized, non-tobacco flavored e-cigarette products.We have long advocated for this action and were encouraged that the Administration had finally decided to act. As of today, however, the FDA has neither finalized nor announced when it will finalize the compliance policy and is reportedly considering significantly weakening this policy by exempting mint and menthol products, which your agency's own data have demonstrated are incredibly popular among children. While the Administration continues to permit the sale of unauthorized, non-tobacco flavored e-cigarette products, each day more children are becoming e-cigarette users  driven primarily by flavors. We strongly urge the Administration to fulfill its promise to clear the market of all unauthorized, non-tobacco flavored e-cigarettes  including mint and menthol flavors  immediately. It is imperative that the Administration promptly finalize the compliance policy. E-cigarette use among children continues to rise at an alarming rate. Approximately 20 percent of high school students reported using e-cigarettes in 2018, which is more than a 75 percent increase in use from 2017. Furthermore, high school students who used e-cigarettes reported using them more often in 2018 than in 2017. E-cigarette use among middle school students increased nearly 50 percent from 2017 to 2018. This appetite for e-cigarette use by children has been largely fueled by the appeal of non-tobacco flavors such as fruit, candy, and menthol or mint. There are no recent signs that e-cigarette use by children is decreasing: preliminary data from the 2019 National Youth Tobacco Survey shows a continued rise in youth e-cigarette use. Although the full scope of the dangers remains uncertain, it is well-known that e-cigarettes pose a serious health risk to youth. On October 11, 2018, the Washington Post published an op-ed by you and then-FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb. In it, you acknowledged that the steps we have taken thus far are not enough, noting that e-cigarettes have been the most popular nicotine product among American teenagers since 2014; nicotine is highly addictive and can harm brain development; and children who start on e-cigarettes are more likely than non-smoking peers to end up using traditional tobacco products. You stated you were actively reconsidering our policy under which certain e-cigarettes  particularly the products with flavors that might appeal to children  can remain on the market .In the year since, the epidemic has worsened, and we have learned that e-cigarettes are associated with a nationwide outbreak of lung illnesses, some of which have resulted in death. On September 11, 2019, you joined President Trump, First Lady Melania Trump, and Acting FDA Commissioner Norman Sharpless in the Oval Office to announce your intent to finalize the compliance policy removing unauthorized, non-tobacco flavored e-cigarettes from the market. You stated the Administration's intent to clear the market of flavored e-cigarettes to reverse the deeply concerning epidemic of youth e-cigarette use that is impacting children, families, schools and communities, and Acting Commissioner Sharpless noted that finalization of the compliance policy will be an important step in ongoing work to ensure e-cigarettes are not marketed to, sold to, or used by kids. With each day, more children continue to be lured to e-cigarettes by flavors such as fruit, candy, and mint or menthol. We are therefore deeply troubled that there is no final compliance policy more than six weeks after the Oval Office announcement. Instead, the FDA provides assurances that the agency is working as quickly as possible to finalize a compliance policy.It is increasingly unclear what the FDA's final compliance policy will look like. The Trump Administration is reportedly considering allowing mint and menthol flavors to remain on the market even if and when the FDA does finalize a compliance policy, despite nearly two-thirds of kids who use e-cigarettes using mint and menthol flavored products. This is unacceptable. The Administration has already delayed action for far too long to address this public health crisis. Further fueling our concerns, on October 25, 2019, news reports indicated that this reconsideration follows warnings from President Trump's campaign manager, Brad Parscale, that a policy removing flavored e-cigarettes from the market could backfire in the 2020 election and that Trump supporters who use e-cigarettes could abandon the president if he follows through on a ban.We are outraged that the President appears to be playing politics with children's health. Because of the ever-increasing epidemic of youth e-cigarette use that has been fueled by flavors that include mint and menthol, we implore the Administration to finalize a compliance policy removing all unauthorized, non-tobacco flavored e-cigarettes from the market immediately. It must not bow to industry or political pressure at the expense of the public health. If you have any questions regarding this letter, please contact Andi Lipstein Fristedt with the HELP Committee Staff at (202) 224-7675.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/to-promote-health-and-cut-insurance-costs-king-stresses-importance-of-federal-workplace-wellness-programs,"To Promote Health and Cut Insurance Costs, King Stresses Importance of Federal Workplace Wellness Programs",2019-10-30,2019,2019-10,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC  Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) announced that he has joined two of his Senate colleagues to urge the federal government to evaluate the effectiveness of federal workplace wellness programs. Senator King joined Senators Ben Cardin (D-Md.) and Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) in reaching out to the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to emphasize the benefits of programs that encourage healthier lifestyles, reduce risks of chronic diseases and cut overall healthcare expenses. In their letter, Senators King, Cardin, and Van Hollen urge the GAO to assess the availability, participation and impact of these programs in our federal workforce. The burden of chronic disease is not just hurting individuals, but is also contributing to the rising cost of healthcarewhich has put a strain not only on family budgets but also on employers, wrote the senators in the letter. The average premium for employer-sponsored coverage for a family of four now exceeds $18,000, and employee contributions exceed $5,500 annually. According to the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (MEPS), the average emergency room visit cost $1,003 in 2016; almost 10 times the cost of a visit to a family physician. As noted by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), Worksite health and wellness programs help employees modify their lifestyles and move toward an optimal state of wellness,' continued the senators. As the nation's largest employer, it is essential that the federal government utilize workplace wellness programs strategically. Compared to private companies, the federal government is in a unique position as a steward of taxpayer dollars, and thus should actively seek ways to minimize cost and maintain healthy employees. According to OPM, federal agencies are encouraged to develop and sustain programs that address the current and future needs of their employees to produce the healthiest possible workforce. Senator King is a champion for prevention policies across the board  including advocating for the benefits and financial efficiency of proactive and preventive healthcare. Earlier this month, he hosted a panel discussion in Bangor with local healthcare providers and public wellness experts on the best ways to use prevention strategies to improve health outcomes and reduce costs. As a follow-up to the event, Senator King also focused his monthly Inside Maine podcast on the same topic. In May, Senator Kingintroduced the Preventive Health Savings Act of 2019, which would direct the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) to more accurately reflect the cost-savings of preventive healthcare, including health screenings. Under current law, the CBO only measures the budgetary impact of legislation in a ten-year timeframe; in contrast, the Preventive Health Savings Act would allow Congressional Committees reviewing healthcare legislation to request up to two additional ten-year projection windows to provide a better understanding of the legislation's long-term effect on the nation's healthcare spending. In March, Senator Kingintroduced the Personal Health Investment Today (PHIT) Act, which incentivizes healthier living by allowing Americans to use a portion of the money saved in their pre-tax health savings accounts toward qualified sports and fitness purchases such as gym memberships. Also in March, heintroduced legislationto help seniors and individuals with disabilities navigate the complex web of federal home modification programs; by investing in small changes like grab bars in the shower or a ramp in place of stairs, these Americans can reduce the risk of a serious fall that brings major expenses for both the individual and the Medicare and Medicaid systems. In a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing last November, hehighlightedthe importance of pursuing preventive healthcare measures to reduce overall healthcare costs for service members and veterans. The full letter can be downloaded HERE or read below. +++  We write regarding the high cost of healthcare in this country and with the knowledge that the leading causes of death and disability in the United States are both preventable and responsive to workplace interventions, and request that the Government Accountability Office conduct a comprehensive investigation into the state of federal workplace health and wellness programs. In the United States, 70 percent of the total disease burden is made up of preventable or postponable illnesses, and 99 percent of the adult U.S. population has at least one of seven cardiovascular health risks that lifestyle change can often alter: high blood pressure, high cholesterol, high blood glucose, unhealthy weight, tobacco use, physical inactivity, poor diet. Additionally, a Stanford University study from 2015 found that more than 120,000 deaths a year, and roughly 5 to 8 percent of annual healthcare costs, may be attributable to how U.S. companies manage their workforceswhich would make it the fifth leading cause of death in the U.S. The burden of chronic disease is not just hurting individuals, but is also contributing to the rising cost of healthcarewhich has put a strain not only on family budgets but also on employers. The average premium for employer-sponsored coverage for a family of four now exceeds $18,000, and employee contributions exceed $5,500 annually. According to the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (MEPS), the average emergency room visit cost $1,003 in 2016; almost 10 times the cost of a visit to a family physician. With 151 million U.S. adults in the civilian non-industrialized workforce, the workplace is an ideal setting to improve population health. Many private companies recognize the impact of the social environment in the workplace on health, and are implementing programs that, in some cases, show a reduction in medical costs of approximately $3.27 for every dollar spent on workplace wellness programs. While the methods of intervention can vary, many programs often include health education, nutrition services, lactation support, physical activity promotion, screenings, vaccinations, traditional occupational health and safety, disease management, and linkages to related employee services. There is substantial evidence, gathered over time, that well-designed and implemented (utilizing best practices) wellness programs can improve the health of participants and minimize health risk factors that could lead to health problems and chronic conditions. In one study of a company with over 100,000 employees, the company saved $535 in annual medical costs of wellness program participants compared to the sample group between 2002-2008. As noted by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), Worksite health and wellness programs help employees modify their lifestyles and move toward an optimal state of wellness. As the nation's largest employer, it is essential that the federal government utilize workplace wellness programs strategically. Compared to private companies, the federal government is in a unique position as a steward of taxpayer dollars, and thus should actively seek ways to minimize cost and maintain healthy employees. According to OPM, federal agencies are encouraged to develop and sustain programs that address the current and future needs of their employees to produce the healthiest possible workforce. Given this, we would like GAO to address the following questions: (1) What workplace well-being and wellness programs do federal employees currently have access to? What is the level of participation? (2) What resources and support systems are made available to managers and persons in positions of leadership to implement programs to support the health of employees? (3) How does the federal government collect data on the efficacy of workplace wellness programs? (4) To what extent has the federal government evaluated the effectiveness of its expenditures on workplace wellness programming, considering such factors in employee health and satisfaction such as productivity, absenteeism, and retention?                                                               Thank you for your attention to this important issue.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-demands-improvements-to-lead-exposure-screening-for-children,King Demands Improvements to Lead Exposure Screening for Children,2019-10-29,2019,2019-10,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) today joined a group of his colleagues in urging the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to take additional steps to support children affected by lead exposure, including increased prevention, screening and treatment efforts. In a letter to CMS Administrator Seema Verma, Senator King and 16 senators requested an update on how CMS plans to address demonstrated gaps in data pertaining to blood lead level screenings and urged CMS to renew its commitment to ensuring appropriate lead screening for children at risk of lead exposure.A study by the Maine Center for Public Interest Reporting showed that from 2003 to 2013, an average of 130 Maine children per year were diagnosed with lead poisoning  with the effects focused on children from low-income families. Childhood lead exposure remains a serious public health challenge for communities across the country, the senators wrote. With Medicaid serving as an essential health coverage source for the nation's children, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) plays a critical role in the prevention, screening, and treatment of children affected by lead exposure. Decades of research demonstrate that lead exposure poses a serious and grave risk to the health of children, the senators continued. Lead exposure can lead to serious health consequences including a lifetime of disease and behavioral challenges. Even as rates of lead poisoning are falling nationwide, data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) show that children in at least four million households across the United States are currently exposed to high levels of lead  whether from paint, contaminated soil, water, toys, or other household items While we were encouraged by the steps CMS took in 2016, it is clear that more needs to be done to increase screening rates, emphasize prevention, and facilitate early intervention. Current federal law requires blood lead screening as appropriate for age and risk factors for all children enrolled in Medicaid, including lead screenings at 12 months and 24 months of age. However, because the data is incomplete, CMS is impeding its own ability to address lead poisoning prevention. Lead exposure can lead to serious health consequences, including a lifetime of disease and behavioral challenges. Even as rates of lead poisoning are falling nationwide, data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) show that children in at least four million households across the United States are currently exposed to high levels of lead, from sources including paint, contaminated soil, water, toys, or other household items. In 2016, CMS took a number of actions aimed at improving blood lead screening and testing for Medicaid-eligible children, including the collection of data to try and help ensure the delivery of blood lead screening. However, data on statutorily mandated blood lead screenings remains incomplete. As a result, it is unclear how many children at risk of lead exposure are actually receiving required and needed blood lead screenings in accordance with federal requirements and CMS policy. Full text of the letter to CMS can be found here and below. +++ Dear Administrator Verma, Childhood lead exposure remains a serious public health challenge for communities across the country. With Medicaid serving as an essential health coverage source for the nation's children, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) plays a critical role in the prevention, screening, and treatment of children affected by lead exposure. Accordingly, as we enter National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week, we write to receive an update on the steps CMS is taking to address demonstrated gaps in data pertaining to blood lead level screenings and urge CMS to renew its commitment to ensuring appropriate lead screening for children at risk of lead exposure Decades of research demonstrate that lead exposure poses a serious and grave risk to the health of children. Lead exposure can lead to serious health consequences including a lifetime of disease and behavioral challenges. Even as rates of lead poisoning are falling nationwide, data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) show that children in at least four million households across the United States are currently exposed to high levels of lead  whether from paint, contaminated soil, water, toys, or other household items. For twenty years, federal law has required blood lead screening as appropriate for age and risk factors for all children enrolled in Medicaid. Such screenings are covered under Medicaid's Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment (EPSDT) benefit with all children covered by Medicaid required to receive blood lead screenings at 12 months and 24 months of age. In 2016, CMS under the previous administration took a number of actions aimed at improving blood lead screening and testing for Medicaid-eligible children including the collection of data to try and help ensure the delivery of blood lead screening. However, despite this progress, according to a recent report from the Government Accountability Office (GAO) (GAO-19-481), data on statutorily mandated blood lead screenings remains incomplete. For example, while the blood lead screening data reported annually by states to CMS provides basic information on the number of screenings performed, it does not identify the number of beneficiaries who received blood lead screenings. As a result, it is unclear how many children at risk of lead exposure are actually receiving required and needed blood lead screenings in accordance with federal requirements and CMS policy. This is unacceptable. Progress in addressing this public health crisis will continue to be stifled without significant leadership from the CMS and other federal agencies. While we were encouraged by the steps CMS took in 2016, it is clear that more needs to be done to increase screening rates, emphasize prevention, and facilitate early intervention. While CMS has concurred with the recommendation in the 2019 GAO report regarding the need to collect accurate and complete data on blood lead screening for Medicaid beneficiaries, to our knowledge, CMS has not identified any concrete steps to meet the recommendations included in this report. In order to better understand how CMS plans to address the gaps identified in the 2019 GAO report related to blood lead screening and the specific steps CMS plans to take to address this issue, we ask that you please respond to the following questions: 1. What specific actions has CMS taken or plan to take to address the issues and recommendations related to blood lead screening included in the 2019 GAO report? 2. What steps has CMS taken or plan to take to assist states with planning improvements to ensure complete and accurate reporting of data on blood lead screening? 3. What actions has CMS undertaken or plan to take, in collaboration with the CDC or other federal agencies, to develop improved methods of capturing data related to Medicaid beneficiaries who receive blood lead screenings? 4. In addition to working with the CDC and other federal agencies to improve lead screening data reporting, how is CMS working with Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) agencies or Head Start programs on ways state agencies can coordinate and partner to identify and screen at-risk children? 5. How is CMS engaging with state Medicaid agencies, managed care plans, health care providers, and other stakeholders to improve the rates and associated reporting of mandated blood lead screenings? What engagement, if any, has already occurred and to what result? 6. Moving beyond the importance of screening, how is CMS working with other federal partners, states, and others to ensure early intervention for children with confirmed elevated blood lead levels? 7. What, if any, additional support or oversight authority from Congress does CMS feel it needs in order to ensure the prevention, screening, and treatment for children impacted by lead exposure? We request a response to this letter no later than November 30th, 2019. Thank you for your prompt attention to this issue. We look forward to continuing to collaborate with CMS on this critical public health issue.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-highlights-the-importance-of-cyber-security-in-defense-cloud-technology,King Highlights the Importance of Cyber Security in Defense Cloud Technology,2019-10-29,2019,2019-10,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), co-chair of the Cyberspace Solarium Commission (CSC), questioned Dana Deasy, nominee for Chief Information Officer at the Department Of Defense (DOD), on whether there are security risks associated with storing sensitive information through cloud technology. Senator King alsoquestioned Deasy on the process through which the recent Joint Enterprise Defense Infrastructure (JEDI) contract was awarded to Microsoft, given suggestions by President Trump that he would intervene to prevent the contract from being awarded to rival company Amazon. Later in the hearing, Senator King questioned Mr. Deasy on frequency of cyberattacks on DOD infrastructure and ways to bolster cybersecurity. Let me ask you a question about the cloud that was touched on earlier. People in Maine have approached me and said, why are we going to the cloud? You put everything in one place, doesn't that increase vulnerability?' [Mr. Deasy,] you talked about the three systems you saw in Afghanistan, said Senator King. One of the reasons our election system was not successfully attacked in 2018 is that it's so diffuse. It's state, local, it's  someone described it as a hairball. It's very hard to penetrate. It seems to me, if you have the cloud and everything's there  if it is penetrated, it's a bonanza for the adversary. Assure me that we're not making a large-scale mistake here, by concentrating all of our assets in one place, hoping that it's entirely secure, but, if it isn't, it's a disaster if it's penetrated. The hearing also featured testimony from Lisa Hershman, nominee for Chief Management Officer at the Department Of Defense, and Robert Sander, nominee for General Counsel at the Department Of The Navy. During his time in the Senate, Senator King has been a strong advocate for functional and effective cyber policy, and deterring cyberattacks on American elections and everyday life. Senator King and U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho) introduced theSecuring Energy Infrastructure Act, which waspassed by the House of Representatives in Julyas part of their version of the NDAA. The legislation alsopassed the Senatein the upper chamber's version of the NDAA, and is expected to be included in the final bill once it passes through the House/Senate conference process. In late May, Senator King alsocosponsoredtheElection Security Act, which would require voter-verifiable backup paper ballots and provide election security grants to states for cyber improvements and audits. Earlier that month, he highlighted thefactors that could lead to election cybersecurity issues to members of the U.S. Election Assistance Commission (EAC), the commission who provide best practices when certifying voting machines. In March, Senator King sent aletterto the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) requesting information about NERC's efforts to protect the United States' bulk power system from supply chain vulnerabilities, particularly those posed by vendors from Russia and China. In a February hearing, Senator King emphasizedthe need for urgent action, and questioned NERC President and CEO James Robb about the dangers of foreign equipment in America's energy grid. As co-chair of the Cyberspace Solarium Commission, Senator King leads the Commission's effort to develop a comprehensive national cyber policy with specific policy recommendations to implement and prioritize this approach. This work will culminate with a public report and rollout, including briefings with the congressional committees on defense, intelligence, and homeland security discussing the CSC's findings and recommendations.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/in-october-podcast-king-stresses-preventive-healthcare-with-leading-experts,"In October Podcast, King Stresses Preventive Healthcare with Leading Experts",2019-10-28,2019,2019-10,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, the office of U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) released the October edition of Senator King's Inside Maine podcast, with this edition focusing on preventive healthcare policies. In this episode, Senator King first welcomed Dr. Anand Parekh, chief medical advisor at the Bipartisan Policy Center (BPC), who discussed the importance of creating incentives for prevention-oriented healthcare at a national level. In the second segment, Senator King spoke to Dr. Lori Parham, the state director at AARP Maine, about preventive healthcare efforts at a state level, particularly around Maine's aging population. Both guests were featured panelists at Senator King's panel discussion on prevention in Bangor earlier this month, which brought together local healthcare providers, public wellness experts and Maine residents to discuss the best ways to use prevention strategies to improve health outcomes and reduce costs. Americans pay the highest per capita costs for healthcare, but our health outcomes don't reflect these investments  we all too frequently wait for symptom to arise, instead of staying ahead of health threats. Clearly, something about our approach isn't working, said Senator King. It's important that legislators and the medical community alike shift our mindsets to address health problems before they get serious  because the cheapest and safest medical procedure is one that doesn't have to happen in the first place. Dr. Parekh and Dr. Parham are leaders in shifting how we discuss healthcare expenses and improve public health, and I am grateful that they joined me to share their expertise on this subject. Senator King has made preventive healthcare one of his top priorities in the Senate, introducing legislation and convening leaders to discuss how we can be proactive to both improve healthcare outcomes and reduce national healthcare spending. In May, Senator Kingintroduced the Preventive Health Savings Act of 2019, which would direct the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) to more accurately reflect the cost-savings of preventive healthcare, including health screenings. Under current law, the CBO only measures the budgetary impact of legislation in a ten-year timeframe; in contrast, the Preventive Health Savings Act would allow Congressional Committees reviewing healthcare legislation to request up to two additional ten-year projection windows to provide a better understanding of the legislation's long-term effect on the nation's healthcare spending. In March, Senator Kingintroduced the Personal Health Investment Today (PHIT) Act, which incentivizes healthier living by allowing Americans to use a portion of the money saved in their pre-tax health savings accounts toward qualified sports and fitness purchases such as gym memberships. Also in March, heintroduced legislationto help seniors and individuals with disabilities navigate the complex web of federal home modification programs; by investing in small changes like grab bars in the shower or a ramp in place of stairs, these Americans can reduce the risk of a serious fall that brings major expenses for both the individual and the Medicare and Medicaid systems. In a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing last November, hehighlightedthe importance of pursuing preventive healthcare measures to reduce overall healthcare costs for service members and veterans. Dr. Anand Parekh is the chief medical advisor at the Bipartisan Policy Center, where he focuses on the areas of aging, prevention, and global health. He is also an adjunct professor of health management and policy at the University of Michigan School of Public Health, and is an adjunct assistant professor of medicine at Johns Hopkins University. Before joining BPC, Dr. Parekh served for ten years at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), where he worked as deputy assistant secretary for health from 2008 to 2015. At HHS he developed and implemented national initiatives focused on prevention, wellness, and care management. Dr. Lori Parham is the state director at AARP Maine, where she manages personnel, finances, facilities, and communications. In her role, she is also the lead advocate and spokesperson for AARP in Maine, a state with 230,000 members. She oversees the implementation of both state and federal advocacy campaigns, and facilitates strategic partnerships in the local and state private and non-profit sectors. She has helped nearly 60 Maine communities join the AARP Network of Age-Friendly Communities, which provides resources so people can stay in their homes. The Inside Maine Podcast with Senator Angus King is a 30-minute program that aims to help keep Maine people informed about issues of the day, how they affect life in the state, and how they factor into Senator King's work as one of two independents in the U.S. Senate. Senator King's podcast builds on his existing radio show that airs on Newsradio WGAN in Portland, Maine between 10 and 11 a.m. on almost every last Saturday of the month. The link to the October podcast can be found HERE.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/to-counter-election-interference-king-backs-bill-to-shield-american-elections-from-foreign-influence,"To Counter Election Interference, King Backs Bill to Shield American Elections from Foreign Influence",2019-10-28,2019,2019-10,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"PORTLAND, ME  U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), a member of the Senate Intelligence Committee, today announced his support for the Stopping Harmful Interference in Elections for a Lasting Democracy (SHIELD) Act. This new legislation proposes several steps to stop foreign interference in American elections. A version of the bill passed the House of Representatives last week. This legislation is so clearly consistent with our founders' vision that we shouldn't even need it: to ensure our elected officials are accountable and responsive to their constituents, our elections must be free from foreign interference, said Senator King. Unfortunately, it is clear that in recent years, foreign powers like Russia have worked to undermine faith in our election systems. We must strengthen both the integrity of our elections and Americans' faith in the process; the SHIELD Act is a vital part of that effort. Specifically, the SHIELD Act would require political campaigns, parties and political committees to report attempts by foreign governments, political parties and their agents to influence elections to authorities at the Federal Election Commission (FEC) and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).prevent foreign interference in future elections by ensuring that political ads sold online are covered by the same rules as ads sold on TV, radio and satellite. close loopholes that allow foreign nationals and foreign governments to spend in U.S. elections by prohibiting them from participating in decision-making about campaign contributions or expenditures. clarify that the offering of non-public campaign material to foreign governments and those linked with foreign governments and their agents is an illegal solicitation of support. Additionally, the bill prohibits anyone from providing false information about voting rules and qualifications for voting, provides mechanisms for disseminating correct information, and establishes strong penalties for voter intimidation. A co-chair of theCyberspace Solarium Commission, Senator King has long been an outspoken advocate for preserving the integrity of the American electoral system. In May, hecosponsored theElection Security Actwhich would require voter-verifiable backup paper ballots and provide election security grants to states for cyber improvements and audits. During a Senate Rules Committee hearing earlier this year, Senator King questioned the four members of the U.S. Election Assistance Commissionabout the agency's role in ensuring the security of America's elections, and expressed his deep concern about the lack of resources devoted to the agency during a time when our elections have been targeted by foreign powers.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-statement-on-death-of-abu-bakr-al-baghdadi,King Statement on Death of Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi,2019-10-27,2019,2019-10,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"BRUNSWICK, ME  Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) released the following statement in response to the announcement that Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi was killed during a raid led by American forces: Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi was a murderous extremist who spent his life advancing hate and violence, and his death means that the world is a safer place. I am gratefulfor the American military personnel who performed the dangerous raid with bravery and professionalism, theintelligence community's painstaking efforts to locate al-Baghdadi, and the support of our regional partners who have stood with us against ISIS for years. This is a model for America's war against terror  rooted in good intelligence, coordinated with strategic partners, and carried out by unparalleled military forces. Today is a good day, and an important step forward in a complex campaign  but we cannot fool ourselves into thinking that this marks the end of ISIS, which may be especially active in the weeks ahead in response. Al-Baghdadi is dead, but his hateful, abhorrent ideology survives. We must remain vigilant in our efforts to defend our nation, and committed to advancing a strategic foreign policy that blocks ISIS from gaining a new foothold from which it can plan attacks upon America and our allies and partners.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-usda-investment-in-boothbay-harbor,"Collins, King Announce USDA Investment in Boothbay Harbor",2019-10-24,2019,2019-10,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.Today, U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Angus King (I-Maine) announced that the Boothbay Harbor Sewer District received a grant of $254,000 and a loan of $596,000 from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)'s Rural Development program to replace existing sewer lines and extend the sewer system to better serve Boothbay Harbor, Boothbay and Southport, Maine. The rehabilitation improvements will address the aging infrastructure and capacity issues in the project area, as well as restore the design capacity of the system at a reasonable cost. The line extension will enable the remaining residents on the street to access a public sewer system. Wastewater management systems are critical to safety, wellness, and the environmental health of Maine communities,saidSenators Collins and King in a joint statement. This investment will fund important efforts to modernize infrastructure and increase efficiency for Maine people in the Boothbay region. The USDA Rural Development program recently provided 31 states with grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements through the Water and Waste Disposal Loan and Grant Program. USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities and create jobs in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural areas.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-questions-top-military-official-on-need-for-deterrence-20,King Questions Top Military Official on Need for “Deterrence 2.0”,2019-10-24,2019,2019-10,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) pressed U.S. Navy Vice Admiral Charles Richard, nominee to be Admiral and Commander of the U.S. Strategic Command, on the challenge of using deterrence against non-state actors. Senator King's questioning came during a hearing of the Senate Armed Services Committee considering Vice Admiral Richard's nomination; at other points of the hearing, Senator King questioned the nominee on the military's capability to respond to attacks if communications systems are struck down or hacked, as well as the proper length of tours of duty to maximize both the skills of military personnel and taxpayer dollars.  Deterrence has worked as a strategy for 70 years, but it's based upon a principle of a kind of mutual rationality in the fact that neither side wants to incinerate its country and its countrymen, said Senator King. What worries me is: the theory of deterrence doesn't work if non-state actors get a hold of nuclear weapons.What happens if, (A) it's not a country and (B) the people don't care about dying? I think we need deterrence 2.0. To be thinking about that eventuality because I see that not as a probability, but at least a possibility, and a very frightening oneIt seems to me that part of the key in that scenario is intelligence. We have to know if such a threat is imminent and possible, and how to deal with it in a different way than the traditional deterrence because obviously to somebody who is willing to give up their life instantaneously that is not an effective control."" As a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, Senator King is recognized as a thoughtful voice on national security and foreign policy issues in the Senate. In April, he took part in a bipartisan delegation to Iraq, and in September he traveled on a bipartisan delegation to Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, and Oman; on both trips, he met with American servicemembers and officials and regional leaders to discuss America's security interests. This summer,when questioning Secretary of the Army Mark Esper during his nomination hearing, he reminded the nominee of the importance of America's alliances, emphasized the dangers of miscalculations leading to military action with Iran, and urged Esper to monitor any collaborative effort by Russia and China to undermine American interests abroad. In addition to his committee work, Senator King serves on the Congressional-Executive Commission on China,the Senate North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Observer Group, and theCyberspace Solarium Commission.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-join-bipartisan-push-to-extend-funding-for-community-health-centers,"Collins, King Join Bipartisan Push to Extend Funding for Community Health Centers",2019-10-22,2019,2019-10,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Angus King (I-Maine) joined a bipartisan group of 25 Senators to urge Senate Leadership to ensure long-term funding for community health centers (CHCs), which provide care to more than 200,000 Mainers. The letter calls for immediate passage of the Community Health Investment, Modernization, and Excellence (CHIME) Act of 2019, which would reauthorize the Community Health Center Fund (CHCF) and the National Health Service Corps for five years. Senators Collins and King are both original cosponsors of the CHIME Act. Community health centers provide affordable health care to our nation's most vulnerable citizens, the senators wrote. More than 29 million patients, including 385,000 veterans and 8.7 million children, receive quality medical, dental, vision, and behavioral health care services from a community health center. These centers work to combat the opioid epidemic, offer preventive care to patients, and treat chronic conditions to improve the health of those they serve while saving taxpayer dollars. On average, health centers save over $2,300 per Medicaid patient and save the health care system $24 billion each year. If the CHCF expires, community health centers will lose seventy percent of their federal grant funding. According to the Health Resources and Services Administration, this would cause an estimated 2,400 site closures, 47,000 lost jobs, and threaten the health care of approximately 9 million Americans, the senators continued. As small businesses, community health centers must have certainty to best serve the needs of their communities and their patients. Some centers will soon have to take steps in anticipation of a funding lapse, including reducing staff and operating hours, cancelling capital projects, or even preparing to close their doors. If the CHCF expires next month, community health centers will be unable to plan for the future and continue to better the health of their communities. Additionally, the expiration of the National Health Service Corps and Teaching Health Centers Graduate Medical Education program would harm the ability of health centers to meet their growing workforce needs. Community health centers provide access to cost-effective primary and preventive care for more than 200,000 people in Maine and are a critical part of the nation's primary care network. Across the nation, CHCs serve approximately 29 million patients at over 10,000 sites in both rural and urban communities in every state in the nation. In 2017, community health centers were the medical home for one in twelve Americans, one in ten children, one in six Americans living in rural areas, and more than 330,000 of our nation's veterans. In addition to Senators Collins and King, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), Roy Blunt (R-Mo.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Shelley Moore Capito (D-W. Va.), Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Tom Carper (D-Del.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Cory Gardner (R-Colo.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Doug Jones (D-Ala.), Joe Manchin (D-W. Va.), Martha McSally (R-Ariz.), Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Rob Portman (R-Ohio), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Jon Tester (D-Mont.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), and Roger Wicker (R-Miss.). Click here to read the full letter.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/in-senate-hearing-king-connects-energy-efficiency-to-cheaper-cleaner-power,"In Senate Hearing, King Connects Energy Efficiency to Cheaper, Cleaner Power",2019-10-22,2019,2019-10,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, in a hearing of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, U.S Senator Angus King (I-Maine) questioned witnesses on opportunities to help reduce energy costs for consumers and maximize our existing grid resources, including through the potential use of time-of-day pricing and innovative financing mechanisms to facilitate household energy efficiency improvements. Later in the hearing, Senator King underscored the importance of energy efficiency efforts in the fight against climate change  stressing the need for the United States to maintain its leadership on energy efficiency research and to share innovative, clean, and efficient energy solutions with developing countries to reduce global carbon emissions. The grid itself is grossly inefficient  I just looked this morning at the New England grid. At 4:00 this morning it was 9,000 megawatts. At 4:30 this afternoon it's going to be around 15,000 megawatts. That's a 66% swing, said Senator King in the hearing. If we can have techniques such as time-of-day pricing, electric vehicles, energy storage in the home during the dayso you draw down your energy at night and use it during the day, in terms of things like space heatingwe can drastically increase the efficiency of the grid if you can use the current grid more efficiently, everybody's price per kilowatt hour goes down. Because the cost of the grid is spread over the number of kilowatt hours  so I urge you to consider time of day pricing. We can't forget China and India, added Senator King later in the hearing. If we are going to deal with climate change, we've got to talk about those countries  and their right  I would say, to have the same kind of level of amenities that we have. We can't tell them you can't air condition' or you can't have a second car'. But how do we help internationally to guide them to be more efficient, because otherwise everything we do is just not going to meet the demands of the world climate situation. The hearing featured testimony from Daniel Bresette, Executive Director, Environmental and Energy Study Institute; Jennifer Layke, Global Director for Energy, World Resources Institute; Dr. Brian Motherway, Head of Energy Efficiency, International Energy Agency; and W. Scott Tew, Executive Director, Center for Energy Efficiency & Sustainability, Ingersoll Rand. Last week, Senator King joined his colleagues in urging the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to release funding for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) as quickly as possible to Maine people who rely on its aid to pay for steep winter heating costs. A forceful advocate for clean energy solutions, Senator King is the lead sponsor on a range of bills that encourage energy efficiency such as theNext Generation Grid Resources and Infrastructure Development (GRID) Actto improve energy independence, foster innovation, and leverage federal resources to support a more resilient and modern electric grid.In a May hearing, Senator King highlightedthe grave dangers posed by rapidly rising carbon dioxide (CO2) levels in the atmosphere, and emphasized the importance of global collaboration in order to fully and effectively respond to the threats of climate change. In April, he published a column on Earth Daylaying out the ambitious and attainable stepsAmerica must take to respond to the challenges of climate change. In February, Senator Kingtook to the Senate floor to urge action on climate change. He strongly opposed the Administration's decision towithdraw from the Paris Climate Agreement.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-king-collins-reed-call-for-quick-distribution-of-liheap-assistance,"Senators King, Collins, Reed Call for Quick Distribution of LIHEAP Assistance",2019-10-22,2019,2019-10,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.  As agencies prepare to assist low-income homeowners and renters heat their homes in the upcoming winter months, U.S. Senators Angus King (I-Maine), Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Jack Reed (D-R.I.) were among a bipartisan coalition of senators urging the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to release funds for the their Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) as quickly as possible under the current continuing resolution. In a letter sent to HHS Secretary Alex Azar, Senators King, Collins, Reed, and 32 of their colleagues urged the Department to release LIHEAP funds without delay and at as high a level as possible under the continuing resolution. LIHEAP is a federally funded program that provides eligible low-income households with help paying a portion of their heating and utility bills. Eligibility is based on a household's combined income as well as the number of residents. During a brutal Maine winter, heating your home is a necessity that cannot be ignored, said Senator King. Since Maine's energy costs are among the highest in the nation, LIHEAP funding is a lifeline for families across our state, helping them stay warm without having to sacrifice other necessities  the Administration should disperse these funds as quickly and efficiently as possible. Vulnerable Mainers rely on the LIHEAP program to keep warm during the winter months, said Senator Collins. This funding will help ensure that low-income families and seniors do not have to make the impossible choice between paying for heat and paying for food or medicine. The Administration should move quickly to distribute these critical funds appropriated by Congress. LIHEAP helps thousands of Rhode Island families stay warm and safe through the cold winter months, said Senator Reed. Children, Americans with disabilities, and seniors on fixed incomes shouldn't have to choose between paying utility bills or forgoing essentials like food and medicine. LIHEAP is an effective program that provides a lifeline to Rhode Island families struggling to pay for their home heating needs. Instead of trying to eliminate the program or hold up assistance, the Trump Administration should swiftly distribute these funds to ensure it reaches those in need. Low-income families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities can get help paying their winter heating bills by applying for LIHEAP through their local Community Action Agency. Nearly 28,000 Maine households receive assistance benefits each heating season. The average annual LIHEAP benefit to Maine households that use the program is $918. Benefit amounts are based on each household's income level, family size, whether they live in subsidized or non-subsidized housing, and the type of fuel used for heating. In addition to Senators Collins, Reed, and King, the letter was signed by Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Bob Casey (D-PA), Christopher Coons (D-DE), Catherine Cortez-Masto (D-NV), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Dianne Feinstsein (D-CA), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Kamala Harris (D-CA), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), John Hoeven (R-ND), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ed Markey (D-MA), Robert Menendez (D-NJ), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Patty Murray (D-WA), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Tina Smith (D-MN). Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Ron Wyden (D-OR). Click HERE to read the letter.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-pingree-support-communities-in-york-and-cumberland-counties-seeking-updated-fema-flood-maps,"Collins, King, Pingree Support Communities in York and Cumberland Counties Seeking Updated FEMA Flood Maps",2019-10-21,2019,2019-10,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King and Representative Chellie Pingree wrote to Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Acting Administrator Peter Gaynor on behalf of cities and towns in York and Cumberland counties that are seeking changes in FEMA's preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Maps. Communities in York and Cumberland counties have filed alternate maps that they believe more accurately reflect flood risks, but they were rejected by FEMA. At least two municipalities have requested a review of FEMA's determination through the Scientific Resolution Panel (SRP) process. Senators Collins and King and Representative Pingree called on Acting Administrator Gaynor to provide guidance to these communities on a process that would allow FEMA to consider corrections to the maps, and to help minimize disruptions to property owners. Multiple cities and towns in these counties have contacted us with the concern that these maps do not accurately reflect the risk of floods in their communities, Senators Collins and King and Representative Pingree wrote. Given the importance of properly-priced flood insurance to homes and businesses in these communities, we believe that every effort should be made to ensure that the flood maps that are ultimately put in place by FEMA are scientifically and technically correct, they continued. Click HERE to read Sens. Collins and King and Rep. Pingree's letter",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-urges-sec-to-investigate-suspicious-market-activity-tied-to-china-policy-changes,King Urges SEC to Investigate Suspicious Market Activity Tied to China Policy Changes,2019-10-21,2019,2019-10,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"PORTLAND, ME  U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) today urged Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Chairman Jay Clayton to investigate a pattern of suspicious futures trades coming immediately before market-moving foreign policy announcements related to America's relations with China. The nature and timing of these trades, which Vanity Fair reports may have netted billions of dollars in profit, raise concerns that the trader may have received advance, illegal notification regarding impending policy changes that would significantly impact the stock market. In his letter to Chairman Clayton, King underscores the national security risks posed by misuse of confidential information and emphasizes the responsibility of the SEC to promote public trust in America's financial markets. Media coverage indicates that since late June, a troubling pattern of questionable futures trades has developed, King wrote. Specifically, Vanity Fair reports that on at least three occasions, an investor or a group of investors purchased a substantial number of S&P 500 Index futures just before markets closed on the day before a market-moving foreign policy announcement related to China If a trader made futures purchases based on tips from government officials regarding important Chinese policy changes, then the government tipper endangered national security. Leaking confidential information  whether for profit or for the benefit of a foreign government  removes the elements of deliberation and surprise that are essential to the advantageous prosecution of American foreign policy. Regardless of whether or not the trades resulted from insider trading, their size and repetition have raised public suspicion, continued King. It is incumbent upon the SEC to promote public trust in the Nation's financial markets, and, accordingly, I urge you to investigate any suspicious S&P 500 futures trades that occurred just prior to a market-moving foreign policy announcement. Should your investigation produce actionable evidence of civil wrongdoing, I urge you to hold the people who misappropriated non-public information responsible  and, if during the course of your investigation you determine that futures trades resulted from a leak of government information, I urge you to report your findings to the FBI immediately. Senator King's full letter can be downloaded HERE or read in full below: +++  Chairman Clayton: The specter of insider trading by government officials threatens the integrity of our markets and the security of our Nation. I write to you as a member of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence to express concern regarding a report of large futures trades that were followed immediately by significant foreign policy announcements. Media coverage indicates that since late June, a troubling pattern of questionable futures trades has developed. Specifically, Vanity Fair reports that on at least three occasions, an investor or a group of investors purchased a substantial number of S&P 500 Index futures just before markets closed on the day before a market-moving foreign policy announcement related to China. Each futures purchase had the potential to create a fast, hefty profit for the fortunate investor who made it. This pattern of futures purchases may be the result of insider trading by government officials, or it may be the product of good fortune. If a trader made futures purchases based on tips from government officials regarding important Chinese policy changes, then the government tipper endangered national security. Leaking confidential information  whether for profit or for the benefit of a foreign government  removes the elements of deliberation and surprise that are essential to the advantageous prosecution of American foreign policy. Regardless of whether or not the trades resulted from insider trading, their size and repetition have raised public suspicion. It is incumbent upon the SEC to promote public trust in the Nation's financial markets, and, accordingly, I urge you to investigate any suspicious S&P 500 futures trades that occurred just prior to a market-moving foreign policy announcement. Should your investigation produce actionable evidence of civil wrongdoing, I urge you to hold the people who misappropriated non-public information responsible  and, if during the course of your investigation you determine that futures trades resulted from a leak of government information, I urge you to report your findings to the FBI immediately. In addition to taking the steps that I urge above, I ask that you answer the following questions within 30 days:  - Has the SEC or any other U.S. Government agency (to your knowledge) opened an investigation into the above-mentioned trades? If not, please explain why it has not done so. - Has the SEC made any criminal referrals to the FBI regarding insider trading by government officials that turn on disclosure of material, non-public foreign policy information? - Does the SEC have procedures in place to detect and investigate the disclosure of material, non-public information by a government employee to a trader? - Does the SEC have the resources that it needs to enforce the Stop Trading on Congressional Knowledge (STOCK) Act? If not, how can Congress better support the Commission as it carries out its duty to investigate and remedy cases of insider trading by government officials? Thank you for your work to bolster public trust in our markets and to ensure that our Nation stays safe.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-announce-maine-locations-for-2019-drug-take-back-day,"Senators Collins, King Announce Maine Locations for 2019 Drug Take-Back Day",2019-10-21,2019,2019-10,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.  Ahead of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency's National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day this Saturday, October 26th, U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-ME) and Angus King (I-ME) announced the locations of the Maine collection sites. Click HERE for the complete list of locations. National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day aims to provide a safe, convenient, and responsible means of disposing prescription drugs, while also educating the general public about the potential for abuse of medications. For the first time, collection sites will accept vaping devices and associated substances. At a previous Take-Back Event in April 2019, federal, state, and local government entities took back 937,443 pounds of unused, expired, or unwanted drugs at more than 6,200 locations across the United States. Over the course of the program, 11,816,393 pounds of prescription drugs have been safely collected across the country, including more than 380,937,257 pounds of medication in Maine alone. Unused prescription drugs that collect in our homes can fall into the wrong hands, creating unintended gateways to addiction and fueling the heroin and opioid crisis, said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. Maine is one of the top 10 states that have disposed the most prescriptions through the DEA's Drug Take-Back Program, and we are confident that our state will continue to lead efforts to stop the abuse of unused drugs that pose a serious threat to our children, our homes, and our environment. Federal regulations allow pharmacies, hospitals, clinics, and other authorized collectors to serve as collection points for unused prescription medication. In 2014, following a bipartisan effort led by Senators Collins and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), the Department of Justice granted the Departments of Defense (DoD) and Veterans Affairs (VA) the ability to participate in prescription drug take-back programs at DoD and VA facilities. This initiative has helped to address the role of prescription drug abuse in many military and veteran suicides. Last year, a sweeping opioids package known as the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act was signed into law. Senator Collins, a member of the Senate Health Committee, authored two provisions included in the final legislation that will help to ensure that unused prescription drugs do not fall into the wrong hands and to bolster peer support networks for long-term recovery. The legislation also included provisions reflecting King-led provisions to expand opioid treatment capabilities, including a permanent authorization for nurse practitioners and physicians assistants to medication-assisted treatment and removing an arbitrary limit to allow residential treatment facilities to expand their efforts to save lives.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/at-22nd-annual-stand-down-at-togus-king-meets-with-maine-veterans-and-caregivers,"At 22nd Annual Stand Down at Togus, King Meets with Maine Veterans and Caregivers",2019-10-19,2019,2019-10,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"AUGUSTA, ME  Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) met with Maine veterans, healthcare providers, and advocates at the 22nd Annual Stand Down at Togus VA Medical Center. The yearly event highlights services and resources for veterans who are homeless or in transitional housing, and helps connect at-risk veterans with the tools they need to find long-term housing.  Maine's veterans have made immense sacrifices to protect our national security. They've earned our eternal respect, and unwavering support  that's why events like the Stand Down are so important, said Senator King. It's up to us to ensure that these heroes have the resources and means to improve their quality of life and build a path forward. By bringing together organizations that support veterans struggling with homelessness, substance use disorders, and mental health complications we can connect those in need with those who can help. The 22nd Annual Stand Down represents an all hands-on-deck approach to veteran care so these men and women can face these challenges head on and lead happy, healthy lives.  Senator King has been an advocate for Maine veterans during his time in Washington, working to honor their service and provide them with the high-quality care they have earned through their service. Last month, Senator King announced that the Department of Veterans Affairs has awarded a lease contract for a new Community Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC) in Portland. The facility will allow more veterans to access care in their own communities and reduce the strain on Togus. In June, Senator King took part in the official, bipartisan Senate delegation to Normandy, France, to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the D-Day invasion by Allied forces during World War II. In May, he spoke at Maine Veterans' Memorial Cemetery in Augusta to pay tribute to America's fallen heroes and honor the sacrifices of America's veterans and their families.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-bipartisan-colleagues-urge-president-to-reconsider-decision-to-abandon-kurdish-partners,"King, Bipartisan Colleagues Urge President to Reconsider Decision to Abandon Kurdish Partners",2019-10-17,2019,2019-10,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) joined a group of bipartisan senators to urge President Trump to reconsider the decision to abandon our Kurdish partners in the face of Turkey's invasion of northeastern Syria. In addition to Senator King, the letter was also signed by Senators Joe Manchin (D-W. Va.), Martha McSally (R-Ariz.), Doug Jones (R-Ala.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), and Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska). All of the letter's signers serve on the Senate Armed Services Committee. The senators write, in part: As we have seen in recent days, even small shifts in force posture in Syria have allowed Turkey to begin a ground invasion, shelling, and bombing of Kurdish-held territory. Five years of fighting alongside the Kurds have demonstrated to us their skill and resolve, but without an American presence, even these fierce warriors stand little chance against the modern and sophisticated Turkish forces. In fact, in the face of our announced withdrawal they have already been forced to align themselves with the Assad regime and its Russian and Iranian partners in order to survive. Senator King has strongly opposed the President's plan to recklessly remove American military forces from Syria without a well-developed strategy, which he argued was procedurally sloppy, morally reprehensible, and strategically dumb. One day after the initial announcement, he joineda bipartisan group of six Senatorsto send a letter to the President urging him to reconsider his approach. In February, he highlighted his concerns with removing American troops from Syriaduring a hearing in the Senate Armed Services Committee. During the hearing, he questioned General Joseph Votel, Commander of United States Central Command; in response to King's questions, Votel acknowledged that he had not been consulted by President Trump before the Syrian withdrawal plan was announced via Twitter. Read the full letter below or click HERE: +++ Dear President Trump, We write to you as bipartisan members of the Senate Armed Services Committee to implore you to reconsider the current strategy in regards to the Turkish incursion into northeastern Syria. We are confident that a structured and deliberate strategy to support our Kurdish partners while reassuring Turkey of our commitment to regional peace will earn broad support across Congress, the National Security community and the American people. As we have seen in recent days, even small shifts in force posture in Syria have allowed Turkey to begin a ground invasion, shelling, and bombing of Kurdish-held territory. Five years of fighting alongside the Kurds have demonstrated to us their skill and resolve, but without an American presence, even these fierce warriors stand little chance against the modern and sophisticated Turkish forces. In fact, in the face of our announced withdrawal they have already been forced to align themselves with the Assad regime and its Russian and Iranian partners in order to survive.  Furthermore, we have serious concerns about the state of the numerous prisons and camps that currently detain ISIS fighters and their families. We believe that trusting Turkey with such an essential responsibility with no oversight from the international community carries an unacceptable risk. The Kurds have demonstrated their capability in this task, and by allowing them to be attacked, we are accepting their diminished ability to provide security and protection to the region. We are aware that one of your goals is to reduce US involvement in long term wars in the Middle East, and many of us are supportive of those efforts. However, leaving so abruptly without protection for those partners who have been with us in the fight against ISIS is not only perilous for them, but also dangerous for us and our national security.This decision will potentially degrade future relationships with allies and partners around the world, who may question our long-term commitment and resolve. We come to you in the sincerest bipartisan fashion because of our grave concerns about our national security and foreign policy. We hope that you will urge Turkey to end their offensive and find a way to a peaceful resolution while supporting our Kurdish partners to ensure regional stability.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/maine-delegation-announce-892586-to-reimburse-portland-preble-street-and-jewish-community-alliance-for-costs-of-caring-for-asylum-seekers,"Maine Delegation Announce $892,586 to Reimburse Portland, Preble Street, and Jewish Community Alliance for Costs of Caring for Asylum Seekers",2019-10-11,2019,2019-10,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King and Representatives Chellie Pingree and Jared Golden announced today that the City of Portland Family Shelter, Preble Street Resource Center, and the Jewish Community Alliance received a total of $892,586. The funding was awarded through the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) Emergency Food and Shelter National Board Program (EFSP). When Maine experienced a surge of asylum seekers this summer, Portland, its surrounding communities, and many individuals and organizations pitched in to help meet the basic needs of these new arrivals, said Senators Collins and King and Representatives Pingree and Golden. While Maine is a welcoming state, our citizens should not bear these costs alone. We are pleased that this funding will help reimburse these organizations that compassionately provided humanitarian assistance. ""I'd like to thank Senators Collins and King, Reps. Pingree and Golden, and Governor Mills, for their support in ensuring our application to FEMA was considered and ultimately approved,"" said Portland City Manager Jon Jennings. ""Portland is a welcoming city and our City staff work tirelessly to provide emergency shelter for those who need it. This federal reimbursement will go a long way in relieving the impact on Portland taxpayers."" Senator Collins and Representative Pingree, who serve on the Senate and House Appropriations Committees respectively, strongly advocated for the inclusion of $30 million for EFSP in the emergency supplemental appropriations bill that passed Congress at the end of June with the support of the entire delegation. The funding was intended for communities across the country that were experiencing a surge in asylum seekers. In July, the Maine delegation wrote to FEMA to urge the agency to distribute the grant assistance as directed by Congress. The funding was allocated as follows:   $864,079      to the City of Portland Family Shelter (the second-largest grant recipient      in the country);    $20,394      to Preble Street, and;    $8,113      to the Jewish Community Alliance.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-announce-nearly-1-million-for-restorative-justice-project-of-midcoast-maine,"Senators Collins, King Announce Nearly $1 Million for Restorative Justice Project of Midcoast Maine",2019-10-11,2019,2019-10,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.  U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced that Restorative Justice Project in Belfast has been awarded $924,307 through the U.S. Department of Justice's (DOJ) Innovations in Community Based Crime Reduction Program (CBCR). The funding will be used to develop and implement a strategic, collaborative, and community-oriented plan to reduce crime. The Restorative Justice Project provides life-changing guidance to juveniles and adults to help them take responsibility for their actions and atone for previous crimes by giving back to their communities, said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. This funding will assist the Restorative Justice Project as they work to ensure that communities in Midcoast Maine remain safe and welcoming. Restorative justice is an approach to justice that focuses on the rehabilitation of offenders through reconciliation with victims and the community at large. Established in 2005, the Restorative Justice Project of the Midcoast provides restorative conferences for adult and juvenile offenders in Knox, Waldo, Lincoln, and Sagadahoc Counties, as well as an array of restorative justice services for Maine Coast Regional Reentry Center and for K-12 schools.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-angus-king-hosts-panel-discussion-in-bangor-on-prevention,Senator Angus King Hosts Panel Discussion in Bangor on Prevention,2019-10-10,2019,2019-10,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"BANGOR, ME  Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) hosted a panel discussion in Bangor with local healthcare providers and public wellness experts on the best ways to use prevention strategies to improve health outcomes and reduce costs. The discussion consisted of two panels: the first panel, Effective Prevention Strategies for Families and Children', included Dr. Anand Parekh, Bipartisan Policy Center; Holly Collins, Mercer; Jamie Comstock, Bangor Public Health; and Lori Dwyer, Penobscot Community Health Care. The next panel, Prevention in the Aging Community', featured Dr. Susan Wehry, Geriatrics, University of New England (UNE); Lori Parham, Maine AARP; Diane Dickerson, Bangor Region YMCA; and Dr. Cliff Singer, Northern Light Health. Both sessions included question and answer sessions with the audience. Often lost in the debates about who should pay for healthcare is how much we pay for healthcare  and it's just too much, said Senator King. Americans pay the highest per capita costs for healthcare, but our health outcomes don't reflect that. We need to fix that, and we can start by incentivizing healthy lifestyles. The cheapest medical procedure is the one that doesn't need to happen  so, let's figure out ways to prevent issues before they get serious. The voices of today's discussion had great insights on how to find solutions that will improve both our health and our wallets, and I'll take their thoughts back to Washington as I continue leading on legislation to make prevention a healthcare priority. Senator King is a champion for prevention policies across the board  including advocating for the benefits and financial efficiency of preventive healthcare, which can both improve healthcare outcomes and reduce national healthcare spending. In May, Senator King introduced the Preventive Health Savings Act of 2019, which would direct the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) to more accurately reflect the cost-savings of preventive healthcare, including health screenings. Under current law, the CBO only measures the budgetary impact of legislation in a ten-year timeframe; in contrast, the Preventive Health Savings Act would allow Congressional Committees reviewing healthcare legislation to request up to two additional ten-year projection windows to provide a better understanding of the legislation's long-term effect on the nation's healthcare spending. In March, Senator Kingintroduced the Personal Health Investment Today (PHIT) Act, which incentivizes healthier living by allowing Americans to use a portion of the money saved in their pre-tax health savings accounts toward qualified sports and fitness purchases such as gym memberships. Also in March, heintroduced legislationto help seniors and individuals with disabilities navigate the complex web of federal home modification programs; by investing in small changes like grab bars in the shower or a ramp in place of stairs, these Americans can reduce the risk of a serious fall that brings major expenses for both the individual and the Medicare and Medicaid systems. In a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing last November, hehighlightedthe importance of pursuing preventive healthcare measures to reduce overall healthcare costs for service members and veterans. Earlier today, Senator King joined Senator Susan Collins (R-Maine), Representative Jared Golden (D-Maine) and federal officials from the Department of Energy, Oakridge National Labs, and U.S. Army at the University of Maine for the unveiling ceremony of the world's largest polymer 3D printer and largest 3D printed object. The 3D printer will be able to utilize biobased materials, creating new opportunities for Maine's forest economy. Maine is the most forested state in the nation, and now we have a 3D printer big enough to make use of this bountiful resource! said Senator King. Today marks the latest innovative investment in Maine's forest economy, which will serve to increase sustainability, advance the future of bio-based manufacturing, and diversify our forest products industry. This is huge opportunity for the state of Maine, and I'm grateful to everyone  especially the University of Maine and the FOR/Maine initiative  for their work make this day a reality. Senator King is a strong supporter of efforts to revitalize Maine's forest economy to further economic opportunities for Maine people. He was key in establishingthe Forest Opportunity Roadmap Maine (FOR/ME) Initiative, an industry-led initiative that is helping to diversify the state's wood products businesses, attract investments, support research and development, and develop greater economic prosperity for rural communities impacted by mill closures. The FOR/ME Initiative was funded as a result of the Economic Development Assessment Team (EDAT)requested by Senators Collins and King in 2016, with support from the U.S. Department of Commerce's Economic Development Administration in order to create strategies for job growth and economic development in Maine's rural communities. FOR/ME developed and is implementing a roadmap and action plan for the development of new markets for Maine's forest resources, including the strengthening of existing forest products manufacturing, the attraction of investment in emerging technology, and the utilization of forest products residuals in CHP biomass plants, microgrids, modern thermal systems, and new forest products development. The FOR/ME Initiative has already resulted inmultiplefunding opportunities for Maine organizations and new investment in Maine's forest economy. Senator King will finish his day by delivering remarks at the Piscataquis Chamber Annual Meeting in Dover-Foxcroft this evening.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-join-bipartisan-call-for-immediate-discharge-of-outstanding-federal-student-loans-for-permanently-disabled-americans,"Senators Collins, King Join Bipartisan Call for Immediate Discharge of Outstanding Federal Student Loans for Permanently Disabled Americans",2019-10-10,2019,2019-10,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.  U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-ME) and Angus King (I-ME) joined Chris Coons (D-DE), Rob Portman (R-OH), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), and Cory Gardner (R-CO), along with U.S. Representatives Ron Kind (D-WI), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Jim Langevin (D-RI), and Don Young (R-AK), in sending a letter urging U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos, U.S. Secretary of Veterans Affairs Robert Wilkie, and Commissioner of Social Security Andrew Saul to immediately discharge outstanding federal student loans for totally and permanently disabled Americans. Under the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, federal student loans that are discharged by the Department of Education due to the death or total and permanent disability of a borrower or the death of a borrower's child are no longer required to be included in the gross income of the borrower. Since Congress has removed the potential tax consequence associated with this type of loan forgiveness, the Senators and Representatives have been urging the Department to automatically discharge outstanding federal student loans for totally and permanently disabled Americans, including veterans. In response to these efforts and efforts of other members of Congress, on August 21, 2019, President Trump signed a Presidential Memorandum that directs the Secretary of Education and Secretary of Veterans Affairs to discharge federal student loan debt for totally and permanently disabled veterans. However, the memorandum does not apply to tens of thousands of totally and permanently disabled individuals, many of whom will continue to carry student loan debt which they are legally entitled to have forgiven. On this issue, the bottom line is simple: Now that Congress has removed the tax consequence associated with loan forgiveness, the U.S. Department of Education should automatically discharge outstanding federal student loans for all totally and permanently disabled Americans, wrote the Senators and Representatives. These Americans should no longer face costly delays or bureaucratic barriers to receiving a benefit that they are entitled to receive under the law. ""Hundreds of thousands of disabled Americans are entitled to immediate student loan discharges under the law, but the Department of Education is not giving them relief, and in many cases is even seizing the disability benefits they depend on to survive. We deeply appreciate this bipartisan effort to ensure that these men and women are not forgotten, and join in their call to the Department to act without further delay,"" said Student Defense Senior Counsel Alex Elson. Click HERE to read the letter.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-workforce-development-funding-at-the-university-of-maine-at-presque-isle,"Collins, King Announce Workforce Development Funding at the University of Maine at Presque Isle",2019-10-09,2019,2019-10,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Angus King (I-Maine) announced today that the University of Maine at Presque Isle (UMPI) has been awarded a five-year, $2,249,810 grant from the U.S. Department of Education to bolster student services in career development. The funding will help students, particularly those who qualify as low-income, earn degrees in computer science and health administration by contributing to a computer lab and health administration learning center. Maine's universities play a key role in both inspiring students' careers and providing them with tools to achieve their goals, said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. UMPI helps students find their passions and gain the skills they need to make major contributions to their communities. These funds will help more students of all backgrounds access this education, and will pay dividends for the State of Maine in years to come. The University of Maine at Presque Isle received the funding through the U.S. Department of Education's Strengthening Institutions Program. This program began in 2010, and helps eligible schools become self-sufficient and expand their capacity to serve low-income students by providing funds to improve and strengthen the academic quality, institutional management, and fiscal stability of eligible institutions.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/in-aroostook-king-tours-new-programs-at-university-of-maine-at-presque-isle,"In Aroostook, King Tours New Programs at University of Maine at Presque Isle",2019-10-09,2019,2019-10,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"PRESQUE ISLE, ME  Today,U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) visited with local leaders, community organizations, university faculty and students in Aroostook County. Senator King began his day at the Aroostook Area Agency on Aging, where he joined advocates and residents to discuss challenges facing the region's seniors, including Medicare, prescription drug costs, and isolation. He then visited Aroostook County Action Program, an organization that provides support and services for those struggling with addiction, homelessness, unemployment, and more. Later in the day, Senator King toured the University of Maine at Presque Isle (UMPI)'s new cybersecurity program, agriculture program and greenhouse. He also discussed the recent federal funding award to bolster UMPI's workforce development efforts. He ended the day meeting with students and faculty at Northern Maine Community College. Today I saw some serious challenges  but I also saw powerful efforts to overcome them, said Senator King. From programs to support seniors facing high healthcare costs and isolation, to work aimed at helping those facing homelessness, unemployment, or addiction, to new educational opportunities to get our students ready for the 21st century workforce, there is impressive and welcome work being done in the County. The compassion for neighbors and focus on building for the future are a model for communities across the nation  come together, and good things happen. Senator King is dedicated to improving the lives of seniors in Maine through a variety of programs. He has pushed for legislation that would allow seniors to age at home with the help of federal programs that provide expertise and resources for home modifications. In March, he introduced legislation to help seniors and individuals with disabilities navigate the complex web of federal home modification programs; by investing in small changes like grab bars in the shower or a ramp in place of stairs, these Americans can reduce the risk of a serious fall that brings major expenses for both the individual and the Medicare and Medicaid systems. In April, Senator King joined 27 other senators in supporting funding for the Senior Community Service Employment Program to help older Americans return to the workforce. During his time in the Senate, Senator King has been a strong advocate for functional and effective cyber policy, and deterring cyberattacks on American elections and everyday life. Senator King is the co-chair of the Cyberspace Solarium Commission (CSC), which he chairs with Representative Mike Gallagher (R-Wis.). The CSC  which features a total of 14 commissioners from Congress, federal agencies, and private sector stakeholders  seeks to build a consensus on a strategic approach to defending the United States in cyberspace against cyberattacks of significant consequences as the world enters a new phase of cyber conflict. The May Edition of Senator King's Inside Maine podcast featured Representative Gallagher and UMA Professor of Cybersecurity, Henry Felch to discuss national security challenges and opportunities available to Maine students to pursue a career in the cybersecurity field. Senator King and U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho) introduced the Securing Energy Infrastructure Act, which was passed by the House of Representatives in July as part of their version of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The legislation also passed the Senate in the upper chamber's version of the NDAA and is expected to be included in the final bill once it passes through the House/Senate conference process. Senator King has been a strong advocate for Maine farmers by helping to assist them to widen their markets. In June, Senator King introduced bipartisan legislation to allow meat and poultry products inspected by state Meat and Poultry Inspection (MPI) programs to be sold across state lines. In May, Senator King introduced the PRIME Act to help small farmers bypass burdensome federal regulations for locally produced meats. Also in May, Senator King joined a bipartisan group of Senators in introducing the Agricultural Export Expansion Act of 2019, legislation to remove a major hurdle for American farmers and ranchers aiming to sell American agricultural products in the Cuban market. In December 2018, Congress passed the Farm Bill with overwhelming bipartisan support. The bill included a number of King-backed provisions to support innovation and create new opportunities for the Maine's agricultural communities.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-announce-400000-to-support-rural-child-care,"Senators Collins, King Announce $400,000 to Support Rural Child Care",2019-10-09,2019,2019-10,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced that Coastal Enterprises, Inc., (CEI) has been awarded $400,000 to implement the Incubating Child Care Centers in Rural Maine Project, an innovative five-year financing, social enterprise, business development, and workforce initiative. This project seeks to provide capital and technical assistance to start-up child care businesses in Maine's economically disadvantaged rural counties. More than 68 percent of Maine children under age six live in households in which all parents are working,said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement.This important funding will propel the Incubating Child Care Centers in Rural Maine Project, sparking job growth and economic development in communities throughout our state that need it most. In August, Senators Collins and King wrote aletterin support of this grant application. The Incubating Child Care Centers in Rural Maine Project will enable a minimum of 350 parents to work, while also producing 85 newly created jobs. Employees will also receive training through a registered apprenticeship program that positions them for promotions and wage increases as they earn child care credentials. This funding was awarded through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Community Economic Development Grant Program.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-announce-more-than-12-million-to-prevent-domestic-violence-and-protect-survivors,"Senators Collins, King Announce More Than $1.2 Million to Prevent Domestic Violence and Protect Survivors",2019-10-09,2019,2019-10,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.  U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced that the Maine Coalition Against Sexual Assault and Safe Voices of Auburn have been awarded a total of $1,249,486 to support domestic violence and sexual assault prevention programs and protect survivors throughout Maine. As we continue to work to prevent domestic violence and sexual assault, we must also ensure that all survivors receive the resources they need to ensure their safety and wellbeing, said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. This funding will help strengthen our state's response to these crimes and allow the Maine Coalition Against Sexual Assault and Safe Voices of Auburn to continue to protect victims in their communities. The funding is allocated as follows: The Maine Coalition Against Sexual Assault received $624,545 to increase accessibility, awareness, and effective responses and referrals to sexual assault services in northern and eastern Maine. The Maine Coalition Against Sexual Assault works in collaboration with Aroostook Mental Health Center, Rape Response Services, and Sexual Assault Support of Midcoast Maine.Safe Voices of Auburn received $624,941 to improve safety and the criminal justice response for victims of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking in Oxford County. Safe Voices works in collaboration with Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Services and Maine Prosecutorial District Three. This funding was awarded through the Office on Violence Against Women's (OVW) Rural Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, Dating Violence and Stalking Program, an agency within the U.S. Department of Justice.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/in-second-volume-of-bipartisan-report-senate-intelligence-committee-releases-findings-on-russias-interference-in-the-2016-election,"In Second Volume of Bipartisan Report, Senate Intelligence Committee Releases Findings on Russia’s Interference in the 2016 Election",2019-10-08,2019,2019-10,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Today, the Senate Intelligence Committee, on which U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-ME) and Angus King (I-ME) serve, released the second volume in the Committee's bipartisan investigation into Russia's attempts to interfere with the 2016 U.S. election. The report, titled, Volume II: Russia's Use of Social Media, exposes Russian efforts on social media to influence political dialogue by impersonating Americans. The data were compiled from classified and unclassified sources and analyzed by the Intelligence Committee. This detailed, bipartisan report adds further incontrovertible proof to what we have long known to be true: Russia was relentless in its efforts to interfere in the 2016 election. It is also evident that Russia is continuing to use social media in a covert attempt to influence public debate, shape Americans' political views, and undermine our democratic institutions, said Senator Collins. This report demonstrates how imperative it is that Congress take strong action to deter foreign nations from attempting to disrupt our elections. In addition, it reinforces the need to move forward with securing our electoral process, the cornerstone of our democracy. In FY18, Congress approved $380 million for election security grants, and I am pleased that the Senate recently included an additional $250 million in the FY20 Financial Services and General Government funding bill to support state election officials who are on the frontlines. Today's report is thorough, bipartisan, and clear: Russia engaged in a sophisticated effort to interfere in the 2016 election, and social media was one of the major tools they used to try to sow discord, manipulate voters, and amplify disputes, said Senator King. I urge the American people to review our findings and approach social platforms with more skepticism  because the best way to guard against future disinformation attempts is for our voters to know when they're being conned by a foreign power. These attacks strike at the heart of our democracy, and we can spare no effort to protect ourselves in 2020 and beyond. The report is clear that we need a forceful response  both with our actions and our words. Two important steps we should take immediately: the Senate must pass stronger election security legislation, and the President must stop using his office and his pulpit to invite further foreign involvement in American elections. The installment released today builds on the first volume on Russia's attacks on election infrastructure that was released by the Committee in July 2019. As part of its investigation, the Committee will also release final volumes examining the Obama Administration's response to Russian interference, the Intelligence Community's assessment of Russian activity in the 2016 election, and remaining counterintelligence questions. The Committee's investigation has spanned more than 15 open hearings, more than 200 witness interviews, and nearly 400,000 documents. You can read, Volume II: Russia's Use of Social Media, HERE. Key Findings and Recommendations: The Committee found that the IRA sought to influence the 2016 U.S. presidential election by harming Hillary Clinton's chances of success and supporting Donald Trump at the direction of the Kremlin. The Committee found that IRA social media activity was overtly and almost invariably supportive of then-candidate Trump to the detriment of Secretary Clinton's campaign. The Internet Research Agency's (IRA) targeting of the 2016 U.S. election was part of a broader, sophisticated, and ongoing information warfare campaign designed to sow discord in American politics and society. While the IRA exploited election-related content, the majority of its operations focused on exacerbating existing tensions on socially divisive issues, including race, immigration, and Second Amendment rights.The Committee found the IRA targeted African-Americans more than any other group or demographic. Through individual posts, location targeting, Facebook pages, Instagram accounts, and Twitter trends, the IRA focused much of its efforts on stoking divisions around hot-button issues with racial undertones.The IRA engaged with unwitting Americans to further its reach beyond the digital realm and into real-world activities. For example, IRA operatives targeting African-Americans convinced individuals to sign petitions, share personal information, and teach self-defense courses. Posing as U.S. political activists, operatives sought help from the Trump Campaign to procure campaign materials and to organize and promote rallies.The Committee found IRA activity increased, rather than decreased, after Election Day 2016. Analysis of IRA-associated accounts shows a significant spike in activity after the election, increasing across Instagram (238 percent), Facebook (59 percent), Twitter (52 percent), and YouTube (84 percent). Researchers continue to uncover IRA-associated accounts that spread malicious content.The Committee recommends social media companies work to facilitate greater information sharing between the public and private sector. Because information warfare campaigns are waged across a variety of platforms, communication between individual companies, government authorities, and law enforcement is essential for fully assessing and responding to them. Additionally, social media companies do not consistently provide a notification or guidance to users who have been exposed to inauthentic accounts.The Committee recommends Congress consider ways to facilitate productive coordination and cooperation between social media companies and relevant government agencies. Congress should consider whether any existing laws may hinder cooperation and whether information sharing should be formalized. The Committee also recommends Congress consider legislation to ensure Americans know the source behind online political advertisements, similar to existing requirements for television, radio, and satellite ads.The Committee recommends the Executive Branch publicly reinforce the danger of attempted foreign interference in the 2020 election. The Executive Branch should establish an interagency task force to monitor foreign nations' use of social media platforms for democratic interference and develop a deterrence framework. A public initiative to increase media literacy and a public service announcement (PSA) campaign could also help inform voters.The Committee recommends candidates, campaigns, and other public figures scrutinize sourcing before sharing or promoting new content within their social media network. All Americans should approach social media responsibly to prevent giving greater reach to those who seek to do our country harm. The Committee recommends that media organizations establish clear guidelines for using social media accounts as sources to prevent the spread of state-sponsored disinformation. Click HERE
to read Volume II",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-announce-12-million-to-support-rural-child-care,"Senators Collins, King Announce $1.2 Million to Support Rural Child Care",2019-10-08,2019,2019-10,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced that Coastal Enterprises, Inc., (CEI) has been awarded $1,200,000 to implement the Incubating Child Care Centers in Rural Maine Project, an innovative five-year financing, social enterprise, business development, and workforce initiative. This project seeks to provide capital and technical assistance to start-up child care businesses in Maine's economically disadvantaged rural counties. More than 68 percent of Maine children under age six live in households in which all parents are working,said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement.This important funding will propel the Incubating Child Care Centers in Rural Maine Project, sparking job growth and economic development in communities throughout our state that need it most. In August, Senators Collins and King wrote aletterin support of this grant application. The Incubating Child Care Centers in Rural Maine Project will enable a minimum of 350 parents to work, while also producing 85 newly created jobs. Employees will also receive training through a registered apprenticeship program that positions them for promotions and wage increases as they earn child care credentials. This funding was awarded through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Community Economic Development Grant Program.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-speaks-at-mti-20th-anniversary-celebration-in-freeport,King Speaks at MTI 20th Anniversary Celebration in Freeport,2019-10-07,2019,2019-10,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"FREEPORT, ME  This evening, Senator King presented keynote remarks at the Maine Technology Institute (MTI)'s 20th Anniversary Celebration  a public-private partnership that then-Governor King was instrumental in establishing. MTI was established in 1999 to bolster economic opportunity, diversify Maine's economy, and create jobs by offering grants, loans, and services. Since then, MTI has invested over $270 million in Maine companies, leveraged over $1 billion in private sector funds, and created tens of thousands of high-quality jobs across the state of Maine. Senator King's remarks focused on the origins of MTI, its impacts on Maine people, and his work in the Senate to further economic development and innovation opportunities for Maine. MTI was created to help Maine people get ahead, and for the last 20 years it's done just that, said Senator King. Since its inception, MTI has left its mark on Maine's economy by creating jobs, investing in startups, and supporting innovators working to bring economic prosperity to their communities. I'm proud to have had a role at the beginning in establishing MTI, but the true credit goes to the Maine people whose vision and dedication have shaped its efforts and boosted our state's economy over the last two decades. It is a true honor to celebrate both MTI's past accomplishments and the good work it continues to do for our state. Senator King is a strong supporter of efforts to revitalize Maine's forest economy to further economic opportunities for Maine people. He was key in establishingthe Forest Opportunity Roadmap Maine (FOR/ME) Initiative, an industry-led initiative that is helping to diversify the state's wood products businesses, attract investments, support research and development, and develop greater economic prosperity for rural communities impacted by mill closures. The FOR/ME Initiative was funded as a result of the Economic Development Assessment Team (EDAT)requested by Senators Susan Collins (R-Maine) and King in 2016, with support from the U.S. Department of Commerce's Economic Development Administration in order to create strategies for job growth and economic development in Maine's rural communities. FOR/ME developed and is implementing a roadmap and action plan for the development of new markets for Maine's forest resources, including the strengthening of existing forest products manufacturing, the attraction of investment in emerging technology, and the utilization of forest products residuals in CHP biomass plants, microgrids, modern thermal systems, and new forest products development. The FOR/ME Initiative has already resulted in multiple funding opportunities for Maine organizations and new investment in Maine's forest economy. Digital connectivity and access to 21st century technology in rural regions are key priorities ofSenator King's economic agendato help modernize and grow Maine's rural economy, support innovation, and create jobs. In July, Senator King joined a bipartisan group of senators to urge the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to delay their proposed Rural Health Care (RHC) Program report and order to better address the concerns of rural health care providers and the medical communities. Also in July, he cosponsored theBroadband Deployment Accuracy and Technological Availability (DATA) Act, which will increase the accuracy of the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) broadband availability maps by improving the process by which broadband data is collected. In May, Senators King and Capito reintroduced legislation tomeasure the economic impact of broadbandso state and federal policymakers can understand the return they will receive on any investments in digital infrastructure. The legislation had previouslypassed the Senate in December, but was not taken up by the House.In April, Senator King joined his colleagues to introducelegislation to promote digital equityso Americans of all backgrounds can have equal access to the opportunities created by the internet.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-statement-on-administrations-move-to-abandon-kurdish-partners,King Statement on Administration’s Move to Abandon Kurdish Partners,2019-10-07,2019,2019-10,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, the Office of U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) released the following statement from Senator King in response to the announcement that the Administration intends to withdraw U.S. military personnel from northeastern Syria: The world must know America will stand with those who fight valiantly alongside us; if our word is not our bond, our ability to attract allies and partners in the future will be seriously compromised, said Senator King. The decision to leave our Kurdish partners at the mercy of the Turks is a moral and strategic mistake that undermines America's trustworthiness in the eyes of the global community and makes it far less likely that we will be able to enlist allies and partners in future conflicts important to our national security. If this is the way we treat those who gave up their lives in our fight against ISIS, who will heed our call the next time we need help and support? This is not America First  it is America Alone. Additionally, our withdrawal will create new opportunities for ISIS to regain a foothold in the region and could embolden Bashar al-Assad's murderous regime. In both the short-term and long-term, this is a harmful mistake  for the sake of our national security, I sincerely hope the President revisits and reverses his decision. Senator King has strongly opposed the President's plan to recklessly remove American military forces from Syria, and one day after the initial announcement, he joined a bipartisan group of six Senators to send a letter to the President urging him to reconsider his approach. In February, he highlighted his concerns with this approach during a hearing in the Senate Armed Services Committee. During the hearing, he questioned General Joseph Votel, Commander of United States Central Command; in response to King's questions, Votel stated that he was not consulted by President Trump before the Syrian withdrawal plan was announced.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/maine-delegation-announces-16-million-sea-grant-award-to-umaine-for-research-on-atlantic-marine-species,Maine Delegation Announces $1.6 Million Sea Grant Award to UMaine for Research on Atlantic Marine Species,2019-10-04,2019,2019-10,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"PORTLAND, MAINEU.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Angus King (I-Maine) and Representatives Chellie Pingree (ME-01) and Jared Golden (ME-02) today announced the award of $1.6 million from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) Sea Grant program to the University of Maine. The grant will fund a research project onHighly Migratory Species in the Northwest Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico, which will help to collect data on age, growth, and migratory behavior of tuna and shark species.      Maine's coastal communities depend on Highly Migratory Species fisheries as an economic engine, sustaining and creating jobs as well as driving coastal tourism and recreation year after year,said Senator Collins. In order to better understand and maintain the health of HMS fisheries, more research is needed. This funding will assist researchers at UMaine as they work with partner institutions to fill the knowledge gaps about the history and biology of HMS fisheries. The Gulf of Maine is an integral part of our state's identity and economy, which is why it is vital that we deepen our understanding of the marine ecosystems it contains  particularly as it is warming faster than 99% of the world's oceanssaid Senator King.This Sea Grant funding will allow researchers at UMaine to conduct important work that will enhance our knowledge of the species that travel through Maine waters, ensuring we have accurate data as we work to mitigate the impact of climate change on our marine economy. There's so much we don't know about what goes on in our oceans, so I'm always excited when researchers have the opportunity to learn more about Maine's waters and species,said Congresswoman Chellie Pingree.This funding from Sea Grant will help us to ensure we understand why and how native Atlantic species migratewhich is especially important as the climate crisis hits the Northern Atlantic and the Gulf of Maine. The University of Maine's innovative research helps support our coastal communities and the Mainers that live and work in those communities. This $1.6 million grant to UMaine through the Sea Grant program will provide important information about the growth and migration of key fish species. Better understanding our fisheries has never been more important as we work with Maine's fishermen and fishing industry to prepare for the future.- Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02) NOAA's Sea Grant program supports coastal and Great Lakes communities through research, extension, and education in order to create a sustainable economy and environment and promote conservation. The grant was awarded through the 2019 Sea Grant Highly Migratory Species (HMS) Research Initiative and will support the collaboration of researchers from the University of Maine, Nova Southeastern University, Mote Marine Laboratory, and Auburn University. The project has five objectives: HMS Stock Structure and Life History; HMS Bycatch Reduction; Commercial and Recreational Post-Release Mortality; HMS Life Stage Distribution and Habitat; and Offshore Oil Platform Impacts to Biology (Health) and Behavior (Movements) of Yellowfin Tuna. Sea Grant's funding in the FY2019 appropriations bill directed an HMS research initiative focused on the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico. All four members of the Maine delegation advocated for Sea Grant's funding throughoutthe appropriations process.Senator Collins and Congresswoman Pingree serve on theSenate andHouse Appropriations Committees, respectively.In June, Senator Collins co-led aletterin support of UMaine's grant application, which was submitted in collaboration with Auburn University, Mote Marine Laboratory, and Nova Southeastern University.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/in-freeport-king-celebrates-launch-of-wolfes-neck-centers-initiative-to-fight-climate-change,"In Freeport, King Celebrates Launch of Wolfe’s Neck Center’s Initiative to Fight Climate Change",2019-10-03,2019,2019-10,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"BRUNSWICK, ME  Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) took part in the launch of the Open Technology Ecosystem for Agricultural Management (OpenTEAM) at Wolfe's Neck Center for Agriculture and the Environment in Freeport. The event, which was also attended by Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-Maine) celebrated the new collaborative initiative that will focus on improving soil health as part of a solution to climate change. Climate change isn't something that can be tackled by one group alone  each of us must do our part to face this existential crisis that threatens our world, said Senator King. The OpenTEAM Initiative will help Maine farmers continue to grow their unparalleled agricultural products while simultaneously taking important steps to improve soil health and mitigate climate change. Today launches an important tool for our farmers, and I look forward to seeing all that this project will accomplish. A forceful advocate for clean energy solutions, Senator King is the lead sponsor on a range of bills that encourage energy efficiency such as theNext Generation Grid Resources and Infrastructure Development (GRID) Actto improve energy independence, foster innovation, and leverage federal resources to support a more resilient and modern electric grid.In a May hearing, Senator King highlightedthe grave dangers posed by rapidly rising carbon dioxide (CO2) levels in the atmosphere, and emphasized the importance of global collaboration in order to fully and effectively respond to the threats of climate change. In April, he published a column on Earth Daylaying out the ambitious and attainable stepsAmerica must take to respond to the challenges of climate change. In February, Senator King took to the Senate floor to urge action on climate change. He strongly opposed the Administration's decision towithdraw from the Paris Climate Agreement. Senator King has been a strong advocate for Maine farmers by helping to assist them to widen their markets. In June, Senator King introduced bipartisan legislation to allow meat and poultry products inspected by state Meat and Poultry Inspection (MPI) programs to be sold across state lines. In May, Senator King introduced thePRIME Actto help small farmers bypass burdensome federal regulations for locally produced meats. Also in May, Senator Kingjoineda bipartisan group of Senators in introducing the Agricultural Export Expansion Act of 2019, legislation to remove a major hurdle for American farmers and ranchers aiming to sell American agricultural products in the Cuban market. In December 2018,Congress passed the Farm Bill with overwhelming bipartisan support. The bill includeda number of King-backed provisionsto support innovation and create new opportunities for the Maine's agricultural communities. Later in the day, Senator King, co-chair of the Senate Arctic Caucus, met with leadership at the Maine North Atlantic Development Office (MENADO) and Maine International Trade Center (MITC), where he received a briefing in advance of the group's trip to the Arctic Assembly in Iceland. Senator King also toured the UPS Maine facility in South Portland. UPS employs more than 1,000 people in Maine. Senator King is an advocate for Maine's interests in the North Atlantic and Arctic region, and has worked in Washington to advance Maine's leadership in the High North. He welcomed MENADO Director Dana Eidsness on the August edition of his Inside Maine podcast to discuss economic opportunities for Maine businesses in North Atlantic markets. They briefly previewed MENADO's upcoming trip to the Arctic Assembly. In 2015, Senator King traveled to Iceland, where he participated in theArctic Circle Assembly Plenary Session, speaking to the national security, climate change, economic issues that make the region a significant policy priority for the U.S. In October 2016, Senator King joined Maine people and leaders from around the globe to attend theArctic Council conferenceat the University of Southern Maine's Portland Campus.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-backs-bill-to-protect-pensions-for-american-workers,King Backs Bill to Protect Pensions for American Workers,2019-10-03,2019,2019-10,Independent,House,ME,Angus King,K000383,www.king.senate.gov,,,legacy,"BRUNSWICK, ME  U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) today announced his cosponsorship of theButch Lewis Act. Named for a retired truck driver and pension advocate, the Butch Lewis Act would address the pension crisis threatening the retirement of more than 1.3 million workers and retirees nationwide and putting small businesses across the country at risk. The bill would create a long-term loan program for at-risk pension plans, which would ease the effects of the crisis on the American people. The loans would keep pension plans solvent without cutting benefits for American retirees. The goal of this bill is simple: to ensure folks can enjoy the retirement security that they have earned, said Senator King. A large number of Americans are in danger of losing their hard-earned pensions. These are middle-class people  paper mill operators, bakers, and machinists  who are in danger of losing their financial security in retirement. The Butch Lewis Act is commonsense legislation that will give these folks peace of mind, ensuring that when they retire, they can live the life they've earned over the course of their careers. These pension benefits are earned over many years, said Tim Suitter, Legislative Chairman, Machinists Union Local S6. The working families of Maine and across the country who have worked hard day in and day out to provide for their families, and pay wages towards their retirement, have every right to expect that money to be there when the time comes for them to retire. We thank Senator King for his leadership on this all important legislation. This situation is not the workers' fault, and they need to know that they'll still be able to retire in dignity, said Roy Houseman, Legislative Director, United Steelworkers (USW). The Butch Lewis Act is absolutely essential in ensuring that workers with troubled multiemployer pension plans will be able to access the benefits they've earned and deserve. Specifically, the legislation would create a 30-year loan program within the Department of Treasury to allow failing pensions plans to borrow the money they need to put them back on solid ground. The loans will help ensure that pension plans can meet their commitments to retirees and workers for decades to come. By putting the plans back on solid footing, the bill would also protect small businesses from the threat of closing their doors if plans are allowed to fail.                   Butch Lewis, the legislation's namesake, wasa Vietnam War veteran who returned home and worked for 40 years as a Teamster. He was the retired head of Teamsters Local 100 in Evendale, Ohio. Butch led the fight to preserve his fellow Teamsters' pensions, and passed away due to a stroke on New Year's Eve in 2015. Doctors attributed his stroke, at least in part, to the stress he faced fighting the proposed pension cuts. His wife Rita Lewis, with whom he was set to celebrate his 40th wedding anniversary before he died, has continued her late husband's fight for the retirement security these workers earned over a lifetime of hard work",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z